Elon Musk, the world’s most famous entrepreneur behind colossal tech companies like Tesla and SpaceX, and also the world’s richest person with a net worth of $342.9 billion as of March 2025, is no exception in the world of celebrities, boasting an impressive fleet of private aircraft. Musk maintains several private aircraft to support his demanding schedule. As of 2025, his collection includes several Gulfstream jets, each tailored to meet specific travel needs. Our article provides an in-depth examination of Musk’s private jet fleet, detailing the features and capabilities of each aircraft, as well as the current operational status, pre-ordered aircraft, and those that have already been retired.
Would you like to compare the aircraft fleets of different celebrities? Look no more, check out our Simple Flying celebrities section!
Elon Musk’s private pilot journey
Before his rise as one of the world’s most influential tech moguls and the acquisition of luxurious private jets, Elon Musk obtained his private pilot license in 2002 to fly some small planes for leisure activities. He owned several aircraft, including a single-engine turboprop Piper Meridian, and even a military-grade Aero L-39 Albatros jet trainer. Known for its high performance and maneuverability, the L-39 allowed Musk to indulge his passion for flying while improving his piloting skills. Musk flew this fighter jet regularly, enjoying the adrenaline rush that came with controlling a high-speed aircraft. According to his interview with Fortune magazine in 2003, Musk said about his Albatros:
“It’s probably the most fun plane I’ve ever flown….You can do eight Gs in that plane. Literally, it was just like in Top Gun.”
However, as Musk’s businesses expanded and his schedule became increasingly demanding, he decided to step back from flying himself in 2008. Safety concerns also played a significant role, as piloting a high-speed jet carried inherent risks that Musk could no longer justify, given his growing responsibilities at Tesla and SpaceX. Moreover, he had a family to look after, so he decided not to risk it anymore. According to the “The Space Barons” book, Musk’s main reason for stopping his military jet flights was his children, not just business. Consequently, Musk transitioned to utilizing professional pilots for his growing fleet of business jets, allowing him to focus on work and other activities during flights rather than managing the controls.
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The private jet fleet
Despite obtaining a pilot’s license himself, Musk also purchased his first business jet in 2003 – a Gulfstream G550, which he used for business trips and hired other pilots to fly for him. And it wasn’t his only private jet. Soon afterward, he bought several other aircraft. We will take a closer look at the list of Musk’s private jets, presented in chronological order of acquisition, below.
Gulfstream G550 (N502SX) – active
The Gulfstream G550, registered as N502SX, was the first Gulfstream jet acquired by Elon Musk in 2003. As part of the G550 series, it marked a significant upgrade from the previous G-V model, offering more extended range and improved avionics. The aircraft has been extensively used for business travel between Tesla and SpaceX facilities and remains an integral part of Musk’s active fleet.
Over the years, the G550 has undergone several upgrades to meet modern standards of comfort and technology. It continues to serve as a reliable option for both domestic and international flights, reflecting Musk’s commitment to efficiency.
Key Features:
- Range: 6,750 nautical miles (12,501 km), suitable for long-haul flights.
- Speed: Maximum operating speed of Mach 0.885.
- Cabin: Seating for up to 20 passengers, customizable configurations for work or relaxation.
- Engines: Two Rolls-Royce BR710 turbofan engines, each providing 15,385 lbs of thrust.
- Avionics: PlaneView cockpit with four 14-inch LCD displays, Enhanced Vision System (EVS), and Head-Up Display (HUD).
- Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 91,000 lbs (41,277 kg).
- Fuel Capacity: 41,300 lbs (18,750 kg).
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Dassault Falcon 900B (N900SX) – retired
Musk acquired the Dassault Falcon 900B, registered as N900SX, in 2004. This aircraft represented an early investment in private aviation before Musk became a billionaire. The Falcon 900B was frequently used for regional travel within the United States and occasionally for international flights. It was retired from active service in 2016.
The Falcon 900B is renowned for its tri-jet configuration, which enhances safety and performance during long-haul flights. Its ability to operate from shorter runways made it a versatile choice for various travel needs.
Key Features:
- Range: 4,000 nautical miles (7,408 km), ideal for medium-haul flights.
- Speed: Maximum operating speed of Mach 0.84.
- Cabin: Accommodates up to 19 passengers, featuring a three-engine configuration enhancing safety.
- Engines: Three Honeywell TFE731-5BR-1C turbofan engines, each producing 4,750 lbs of thrust.
- Avionics: Honeywell Primus 2000 digital flight deck.
- MTOW: 45,503 lbs (20,644 kg).
- Fuel Capacity: 21,900 lbs (9,935 kg).
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Another Gulfstream G550 (N272BG) – active
The second G550 in Musk’s fleet, registered as N272BG, was acquired in 2007. Building on the success of his first G550, Musk opted for another of the same model due to its impressive range, comfort, and reliability. Like its predecessor, this jet has seen frequent use for both domestic and international business travel, maintaining high standards of performance and comfort.
This aircraft has been modernized with upgraded avionics and communication systems to support Musk’s busy schedule and ensure seamless connectivity during flights. The key features are the same as those of the previous Gulfstream we mentioned above.
Gulfstream G650ER (N628TS) – active
The Gulfstream G650ER, registered as N628TS, became the centerpiece of Musk’s fleet in 2016. Known for its superior range and luxurious amenities, this long-range business jet is frequently seen at major airports worldwide. The G650ER is designed for ultra-long-haul flights, making it an ideal choice for Musk’s global business operations.
With its spacious and comfortable cabin layout, the G650ER has become Musk’s preferred aircraft. He uses it most often for both professional and personal trips. It features advanced avionics and upgraded interior finishes, keeping it on the cutting edge of private aviation technology.
Key Features:
- Range: 7,500 nautical miles (13,890 km), enabling non-stop flights from California to virtually any destination worldwide.
- Speed: Maximum operating speed of Mach 0.925.
- Cabin: Spacious interior accommodating up to 19 passengers, featuring a full galley, conference area, and private stateroom.
- Engines: Two Rolls-Royce BR725 engines, each delivering 16,900 lbs of thrust.
- Avionics: Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck with touchscreen controls and active control sidesticks.
- MTOW: 103,600 lbs (47,000 kg).
- Fuel Capacity: 48,200 lbs (21,909 kg).
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Gulfstream G700 (on order) – pending delivery
Continuing his commitment to innovation, Musk placed an order for the Gulfstream G700 in 2022, but there have been significant delays in deliveries. According to Gulfstream President Mark Burns, the start of 2024 has been somewhat turbulent following changes to certification policies and the introduction of the “most rigorous certification program in company history.”
Now, the aircraft is expected to join Musk’s fleet in 2025. This new model represents the latest advancement in luxury and performance, promising unprecedented comfort and range. The G700 will feature cutting-edge amenities and serve as the flagship of Musk’s fleet upon delivery, potentially replacing some of his older jets.
Key Features:
- Range: 7,750 nautical miles (14,353 km), slightly surpassing the G650ER.
- Speed: Maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935.
- Cabin: Up to five living areas accommodating 19 passengers, including a large galley and a grand suite with shower.
- Engines: Two Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, each delivering 18,250 lbs of thrust.
- Avionics: ultramodern Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck™ with predictive landing performance and enhanced safety features.
- MTOW: 107,600 lbs (48,807 kg).
- Fuel Capacity: 49,400 lbs (22,408 kg).
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Comparison chart
|
Aircraft Model |
Registration |
Range (NM) |
Max Speed (Mach) |
Passenger Capacity |
Year Acquired |
Status |
|
Gulfstream G550 (2003) |
N502SX |
6,750 |
0.885 |
Up to 20 |
2003 |
Active |
|
Dassault Falcon 900B |
N900SX |
4,000 |
0.84 |
Up to 19 |
2004 |
Retired |
|
Gulfstream G550 (2007) |
N272BG |
6,750 |
0.885 |
Up to 20 |
2007 |
Active |
|
Gulfstream G650ER |
N628TS |
7,500 |
0.925 |
Up to 19 |
2016 |
Active |
|
Gulfstream G700 (On Order) |
N/A |
7,750 |
0.935 |
Up to 19 |
Expected 2025 |
Pending |
Elon Musk’s diverse fleet of private jets underscores his need for efficient, long-range, and extremely comfortable air travel. As one of the world’s busiest entrepreneurs, Musk requires reliable and luxurious transportation to keep up with his busy schedule. We can see that each aircraft in his fleet serves a unique purpose, ranging from regional short flights to intercontinental flights, ensuring he can effortlessly transition between Tesla, SpaceX, his other ventures located in different states, as well as Washington, D.C., for his political affairs under the Trump administration.
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The evolution of Musk’s jet collection also reflects his rise from ambitious innovator to global business titan. From the early days of the “workhorse” Dassault Falcon 900B to the state-of-the-art ultramodern Gulfstream G700, his choices demonstrate a consistent commitment to performance, comfort, and technology. The care and constant upgrades performed on his active jets also highlight Musk’s desire to stay ahead in every aspect of his life, including his private travel.
With the addition of the Gulfstream G700, Musk’s fleet is set to become even more reflective of his position, combining the latest advancements in aviation with unparalleled luxury. As Musk continues to expand his influence across industries, his private jet fleet will remain a vital tool in maintaining his pace and presence worldwide.
Sources: Gulfstream, Business Insider , The Rolling Stone Magazine
