Paul Allen, the late co-founder of Microsoft, was known for his love of luxury and extravagance. He owned several yachts, a fleet of cars, and even a private island. However, his most prized possession was undoubtedly his private jet.
The History of Paul Allen’s Private Jet
Allen purchased his first private jet, a Gulfstream GIV, in 1997. However, he soon upgraded to a larger and more luxurious jet, a Boeing 757-200. This jet was originally built for the Australian airline Qantas, but Allen purchased it in 1999 and had it customized to his exact specifications.
Allen’s Boeing 757-200 was named “The Octopus” after his 414-foot yacht of the same name. The jet was registered in the Cayman Islands and had a distinctive paint job featuring the octopus logo.
The Features of Paul Allen’s Private Jet
Allen’s private jet was not just any ordinary aircraft. It was equipped with all the latest technology and luxury amenities, making it one of the most advanced and comfortable jets in the world.
The interior of the jet was designed by the Seattle-based company, TEAGUE. It featured a spacious lounge area, a dining room, a master bedroom suite, and a fully equipped kitchen. The jet also had a state-of-the-art entertainment system, including multiple flat-screen TVs and a surround sound system.
One of the most impressive features of the jet was its range. It could fly up to 7,000 nautical miles without refueling, making it capable of traveling to almost any destination in the world.
The Cost of Paul Allen’s Private Jet
As you might expect, Paul Allen’s private jet was not cheap. In fact, it was one of the most expensive private jets ever built. The initial cost of the Boeing 757-200 was around $100 million, but with all the customizations and upgrades, the final cost was likely much higher.
In addition to the purchase price, there were also significant ongoing costs associated with operating and maintaining the jet. These included fuel, maintenance, insurance, and pilot salaries.
The Legacy of Paul Allen’s Private Jet
Unfortunately, Paul Allen passed away in 2018, and his beloved private jet was sold soon after. However, the legacy of the jet and its owner lives on.
Allen was a pioneer in the technology industry, and his contributions to the field will be remembered for many years to come. His private jet was a symbol of his success and his love of luxury, but it was also a tool that allowed him to travel the world and pursue his passions.
Today, there are many other wealthy individuals who own private jets, but few can match the luxury and sophistication of Paul Allen’s Boeing 757-200. It was truly a one-of-a-kind aircraft, and it will always be remembered as a testament to the vision and creativity of its owner.