Elvis Presley wasn’t just the King of Rock and Roll; he was a man who embraced an extravagant lifestyle that extended far beyond his music. While millions knew him for his powerful voice, magnetic performances, and iconic fashion choices like his blue suede shoes and glittering jumpsuits, fewer people realize how much attention he paid to his personal spaces. One of the best examples of his flair for design and luxury was his private jet, a customized aircraft that perfectly showcased his signature style and lavish tastes. In 1962, Elvis purchased a Lockheed Jetstar, a sleek aircraft that he made his own.

This wasn’t just another plane; Elvis took the time to have it carefully customized to suit his unique personality. As soon as you step inside, it’s impossible not to be struck by the sophisticated design. The interior features polished wooden paneling and deep red velvet seats that evoke a sense of old-school glamour. Plush carpeting runs the length of the cabin, creating a cozy yet opulent environment that was every bit as grand as the man himself. Elvis used the Jetstar for over 35 years, but after his death in 1977, it was left parked in Roswell, New Mexico. While it was just one piece of his impressive private jet collection, it quickly became a symbol of his legendary lifestyle. In addition to the Jetstar, Elvis owned a Convair 880 he named “Lisa Marie,” in honor of his daughter. That plane carried the call sign “Hound Dog 1,” while another Jetstar in his collection was affectionately dubbed “Hound Dog 2.” These jets weren’t just for getting from point A to point B—they were flying statements of his larger-than-life persona and love for luxury.

Over the years, time wasn’t especially kind to the Jetstar. The once bright red exterior slowly faded from decades of sitting out in the New Mexico sun. Despite the wear and tear on the outside, the jet’s interior remained in surprisingly good condition, a lasting tribute to the quality and care Elvis put into its design. For years, the fate of the jet was uncertain. That changed on January 8 when the plane was auctioned off at the Mecum Kissimmee Collector Car Auction in Florida.

It sold for $260,000, with the winning bid placed over the phone. The new owner’s identity remains a mystery, but whoever it is now holds an authentic piece of rock and roll history that once belonged to Elvis Presley. Inside the jet, the luxurious details that Elvis adored are still very much present. The red velvet chairs offer plush comfort, while the wood-paneled walls add an old-school elegance that’s hard to find today. The spacious cabin was designed as a single open area, making it easy for Elvis and his guests to relax in style. One of the more unique features was the built-in television. Back in the day, having a TV on a private jet was a rare and impressive amenity, showing just how far Elvis went to ensure every flight was as enjoyable as possible.

Moving to the rear of the plane, there’s a small but functional kitchen space. Even though it’s compact, it was fully equipped to handle meals during flights. The microwave, though likely non-functional today, was a standout feature at the time. You can just imagine Elvis whipping up one of his famous peanut butter, banana, bacon sandwiches mid-flight and popping it into the microwave for a quick warm-up. Even the bathroom was designed with comfort in mind. Velvet coverings and a stylish sink made it feel more like a mini lounge than the cramped restrooms we’re used to on commercial flights. Every inch of this plane reflected Elvis’s commitment to living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment in total luxury.

For fans of Elvis, seeing this plane offers an intimate glimpse into his world away from the spotlight. It wasn’t just a means of transportation; it was an extension of his personal style and his desire for comfort, class, and extravagance. The sale of the jet signals the end of its time as a roadside attraction and the beginning of a new chapter. Whether the new owner decides to restore it, showcase it in a museum, or keep it as a private treasure, the plane remains a valuable piece of music history. Elvis’s love for flying was well-known, and his aircraft represented more than just luxury—they were a part of who he was. He traveled in them from concert to concert and spent quality time with family and friends, making memories at 30,000 feet. This Jetstar was not just a plane; it was one of his sanctuaries in the sky. Today, Elvis’s legacy lives on through his music, his style, and artifacts like this incredible jet. Even though he’s no longer with us, the King of Rock and Roll continues to inspire and captivate people all over the world. And for those who loved him, that jet is more than enough to keep his spirit soaring.