Does John Travolta Own a 747?

John Travolta is a notorious aviation enthusiast, with a collection of jets that would put many pilots to shame. Although he does not own a Boeing 747, a popular urban legend persists regarding this fact. Let’s dive into the truth behind the rumors and uncover the fascinating history of Travolta’s jet collection.

Travolta’s Collection

To the best of my knowledge, John Travolta does not own a Boeing 747. Instead, his collection comprises several other private jets, including a Boeing 707 and a Boeing 727. These aircraft are part of a fleet that includes%

Travolta's Private Jets

Travolta has at least seven jets in his collection. His collection includes a Bombardier Challenger 601, a Boeing 727, an Eclipse 500, a Dassault Falcon 900, and three Gulfstream jets. His prized possession is the Boeing 707-138B, which he acquired over 20 years ago.

Email 707: A Classic Airliner

John Travolta’s Boeing 707 is a 707-138B, built in 1964. This specific model is the short-fuselage version, commonly used for domestic and short-haul international over-water routes. When first delivered, the aircraft was named VH-EBM “City of Launceston” and operated by

The Current State of Travolta's 707

The 707 is currently managed by the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) in Woollongong, Australia. Although it requires repairs and maintenance, the jetliner captures the hearts of aviation enthusiasts with its unique history. It's been through many ownerships and modifications over the decades, including a stint with Braniff International Airways and a brief period with Frank Sinatra.

Insurance and Certification

While Travolta has a passion for aviation and even a type rating for the Boeing 707, he can only fly as Second in Command due to insurance and industry contracts. This limitation stems from his personal services within the entertainment industry, which may prohibit him from flying as the main pilot.

Conclusion

John Travolta’s love for aviation is undeniable, and his jet collection is a testament to his passion. Despite the rumor, he does not own a Boeing 747, but he does own several other valuable aircraft. His generosity in donating the 707 to the HARS demonstrates his commitment to preserving aviation history. Whether he flies as a passenger or a pilot, his jets continue to hold a special place in the world of private aviation.