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via Imago

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When we talk about basketball greatness, Michael Jordan’s name comes on top. Even after hanging up his sneakers, Jordan keeps proving why he’s in a league of his own, living a life many can only dream of. Now retired, MJ is all about luxury. His net worth? A jaw-dropping $3.5 billion, thanks to lucrative sponsorship deals with brands like Nike and his savvy business investments. But what really screams luxury is his private jets.

Jordan shelled out $131.5 million for two magnificent aircraft—a Gulfstream G550 and his newest addition, the Gulfstream G650ER. Both are masterpieces, but which one takes the crown? Let’s dig into the details.

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MJ’s Gulfstream G650ER

In October, Michael Jordan unveiled his Gulfstream G650ER in style. He arrived at the YellaWood 500 NASCAR event in Talladega, making quite the entrance. This wasn’t just a casual outing—Jordan co-owns the 23XI Racing team, which was competing that day. Talk about combining business with pleasure! At $70 million, this aircraft doesn’t just fly high; it tells a story of excellence. Not only that, the aircraft also carries MJ’s personal touch.

While aircraft registration numbers are not usually intriguing, the one on Jordan’s plane is undoubtedly one to talk about, as it has a special meaning. The N23 refers to his jersey number #23 during his playing days. The number six references how many NBA championship rings he won. And, as you may have guessed, MJ is for his initials.

According to JetSpy, this G650ER was freshly minted in 2024, with the serial number 6579. Jordan reportedly took delivery on October 3rd, flying it from Gulfstream’s Brunswick, Georgia facility to his home turf in Palm Beach, Florida. Sleek, fast, and filled with meaning. But since adding the Gulfstream G650ER to his fleet, Michael Jordan has wasted no time putting it to work.

 

What’s your perspective on:

Does MJ's jet collection outshine his basketball legacy, or is it just another chapter of greatness?

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With 32 flights and 54 flight hours under its belt, the jet has become a regular at some key airports. Palm Beach International Airport in Florida sees the most action, but Charlotte Douglas International and Concord Regional in North Carolina aren’t far behind. But let’s talk about the jet itself.

The Gulfstream G650ER isn’t just any aircraft—it’s one of the most sought-after business jets in the world. For years, it held the top spot as Gulfstream’s flagship model before the G700 came onto the scene. First introduced in 2012, the original G650 set new standards in luxury and performance. Then, in 2014, the longer-range G650ER took things even further, proving that Gulfstream knows how to up its game.

The G650ER runs on two Rolls-Royce BR725 engines, packing nearly 17,000 pounds of thrust each. The jet measures almost 100 feet long and boasts a wingspan of 99 feet seven inches. With a max takeoff weight of 103,600 pounds, it cruises at a brisk 561 mph. Inside, it’s pure luxury. The cabin can fit 11-18 passengers, depending on the layout, with four distinct zones to relax, work, or simply enjoy the ride.

Old is gold?

Now, Jordan’s Gulfstream G550 isn’t exactly in the shadow of its successor. Purchased in 2016 for $61.5 million, the G550 brought its own unique flair. Originally painted in North Carolina Tar Heels powder blue and white, the jet now sports a grey, white, and black elephant print inspired by Air Jordans. And, of course, the Jumpman logo proudly adorns the tail. Not only that, the private aircraft registration number is also N236MJ. It’s not just a private jet—it’s a flying tribute to MJ’s legacy.

 

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The interiors of his private jets scream opulence. His Gulfstream jets are equipped with premium leather recliner seats, a fully stocked bar and cigar station, a dining area fit for fine cuisine, top-notch entertainment systems, a cozy bedroom, and even a private bathroom. Considering MJ’s iconic cigar-puffing celebrations over the years, it’s no surprise he included a cigar station. And as if that wasn’t enough, the couch zone can transform into a bar at the touch of a button.

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What’s more, this jet isn’t just a beauty; it’s a beast. It’s designed to handle 12-hour flights with no need to refuel. Flying at altitudes of up to 41,000 feet, the G550 cruises effortlessly through the skies. It competes head-to-head with luxury giants like the Bombardier Global 6000 and Dassault Falcon 7X. However, operating this beauty doesn’t come cheap—the hourly costs range between $700 and $1,000.

Inside, the G550 offers space for 14 to 19 passengers, though its 6 ft 2 in cabin height might feel a bit snug for Jordan himself, who stands at 6 ft 6 in. But knowing MJ, comfort is never compromised, even at cruising altitude.

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Does MJ's jet collection outshine his basketball legacy, or is it just another chapter of greatness?

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