When it comes to sheer size, the Boeing 747-8i undoubtedly reigns supreme in the aviation world. This version of the iconic aircraft is notably larger than many others.
Boeing 747-8
Officially dubbed the Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) 747-8i, this colossal private airplane stands as the world’s biggest personal jet—and unsurprisingly, its price reflects its grandeur. With a base cost of around $367 million for an unadorned “green” model (essentially just the airframe without additional features), the total expense easily surpasses $400 million when customization options for the interior are factored in.
according to Simple Flying
These interior enhancements can increase the value by $25 to $50 million, and occasionally even higher, particularly when accounting for time invested, bespoke details, and exotic materials. For instance, back in 2018, a Qatari family bestowed their personal jumbo jet as a gift to the Turkish President.
BBC report noted
that it had a valuation of $500 million.
There are only a few instances of the Boeing 747-8i in existence. According to recent records, Boeing has manufactured and distributed around eleven units of this particular model. Buyers usually outfit these planes with features such as sleeping chambers, lavatories, relaxation zones, eating spots, and workspaces—all crafted to top levels of opulence. An exemplary illustration was fashioned by the Paris-based design company Cabinet Alberto Pinto for an affluent client from the Middle East. This customization process stretched over four years until completion. Inside, one finds amenities akin to those found within high-end residences: bespoke furnishings, refined illumination systems, and personal areas tailored for extended flights. Notably, some models include a principal suite situated upfront beneath the flight deck. On the upper level, expansive common rooms equipped with bookcases and large televisions serve alongside child-friendly recreational hubs plus accommodations reserved for the staff members. Given your freedom to tailor-make these jets however desired, should you harbor ambitions similar to a comic-book villain seeking aerial supremacy, acquiring one would certainly fulfill that fantasy.
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The BBJ 747-8i boasts an impressive range of approximately 7,700 nautical miles, enabling direct flights between nearly any pair of major cities worldwide. This luxurious jet accommodates up to 100 passengers and maintains a cruising speed of about 567 mph, which makes it perfect for international corporate endeavors, high-level diplomatic assignments, or extensive family trips. Consequently, this specific variant has become predominantly associated with some of the planet’s richest and most influential entities—both private citizens and national administrations alike. Various countries including the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia utilize these planes primarily for conveying their top officials and distinguished guests. A prime illustration would be Qatar Amiri Flight, which manages multiple BBJ 747-8is dedicated exclusively for state purposes. Interestingly enough, even the U.S. Air Force received one such 747-8i from Qatar back in May 2025; they plan to convert it into a next-generation presidential aircraft—a subject thoroughly examined in ‘’s article on
Why did the USAF opt for the Boeing 747-8?
.
Individual owners are even rarer. The aircraft’s price, dimensions, and running costs —
said to be approximately $23,000 each hour
— Make it available exclusively to an extremely select group. Hong Kong real estate tycoon Joseph Lau is among the limited number of private individuals known to own one, although it’s uncertain whether he continues to use it. A unit initially commissioned by a Saudi prince remained idle in Switzerland for ten years following his death before being ultimately decommissioned. Owning such an aircraft comes with significant drawbacks besides the exorbitant expenses; notably, it requires runways that are at least 7,500 feet long, which rules out many popular airfields like those found in New Jersey’s Teterboro Airport.
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