- Roman Abramovich, the Russian billionaire, has a remarkable collection of big and luxurious private jets.
- The expansion of his private jet collection was driven by the need for rapid and accessible travel during his time as governor.
- His latest addition is a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, one of the most expensive private jets in the world, equipped with luxurious amenities and top-of-the-line features.
There are aircraft collections; then there are those collections that really stand apart from the rest. Such is the case with Roman Abramovich, the Russian billionaire who loves his big jets. They are big in size and luxury. Let’s take a look.
The man behind the planes
Abramovich is a successful man, noted for incredible financial wealth, a citizen of three countries (Russia, Israel, and Portugal), and a foray into politics. He is the former owner of Chelsea football club and is the primary owner of the private investment company Millhouse LLC.
Constant travels to support this flurry of activity caused the oligarch to consider expanding his private jet collection. This became evident when he was governor of Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, a federal subject region of Russia with many inaccessible areas.
The need for rapid and accessible travel was the impetus for his first jet, a Boeing Business Jet (VIP modification of Boeing 737-700). After becoming the governor, he discovered that regular flights between Moscow and Anadyr required a fuel stop in Igarka. His expanding jet collection would resolve that issue.
Big money, big planes
After the 737, Abramovich purchased a Boeing 767-33AER. Hawaiian Airlines had intended to operate it but canceled the order in 2004. It was then purchased by Abramovich, who had it registered in Aruba and the interior refitted. It was based in London Stansted Airport – part of Harrods Aviation. The 767 had a bright, easily recognizable livery with white, gray, and brown lines. The slanting black stripes near the end windows of the cockpit resembled a mask. These unique exterior markings gave the plane notoriety and the nickname “Bandit.”
After flying in the 767 for some time, Abramovich opted to ‘dream’ big with the purchase of his Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Aimed to replace the 767, this top-of-the-line private jet is considered one of the most expensive private jets in the world.
Its amenities include a large dining room, a movie-theater-style viewing space, private bedrooms, bathrooms, and walk-in closet space. This Dreamliner’s open-cabin concept can comfortably carry up to 50 passengers via different seating configurations for security, on-board staff, and guests.
The inside of the aircraft has been drastically modified from the standard version. The cabin is equipped with a banquet hall with accommodations for 30 people, a kitchen, an office, and a bedroom with a double bed. Precious metals and fine woods make up the lavish décor of the airplane’s interior.
In addition, the aircraft is equipped with the newest communication and security systems, including Abramovich’s own anti-ballistic defense system, the cost of which exceeds two million dollars. Based on the inner furnishings and functionality of the Russian businessman’s aircraft, it rivals the airplanes of many world leaders.
Abramovich enjoys flying in heavy jets that have comprised his fleet at one time or another. The aircraft he flies is determined by the purpose and distance of his trip. Shorter trips may be flown on his $60 million Gulfstream G650ER, while the 18-hour endurance on the 787 provides a global reach. Whatever he is flying on, Roman Abramovich is certainly enjoying the jet-setter life.
