Summary
- Elvis Presley’s aircraft fleet, including the Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II, represent his luxurious lifestyle and enduring fame.
- The Lisa Marie, known as the “Flying Graceland,” carried notable passengers like the Memphis Mafia and TCB Band.
- After Elvis’s death, the aircraft’s fate varied, with the Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II now permanently displayed at Graceland.
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, was known for his lavish lifestyle, which always extended to his mode of personal transportation. The legendary musician owned several private aircraft during his lifetime, allowing him to travel in style and comfort.
Let’s explore the unique aircraft owned by Elvis Presley.
The Lisa Marie – Elvis’ Flying Graceland
The crown jewel of Elvis’ aviation fleet was undoubtedly the Lisa Marie, a Convair 880 named after his daughter. Elvis purchased this aircraft from Delta Air Lines in April 1975 for $250,000 (approximately $1.2 million in today’s currency).
The CV-880 underwent extensive renovations that cost around $800,000 and took over six months to complete.
Specifications and Features
The Lisa Marie was configured to carry up to 29 passengers and featured:
- A luxurious interior with a yellow, green, and gold color scheme
- Gold-plated belt buckles
- Leather-topped tables
- Suede sofas
- A conference room
- A private bedroom
- A sky-to-ground phone system
- A quadraphonic eight-track stereo system
Elvis nicknamed the CV-880 his “Flying Graceland,” drawing parallels to his lavish home in Memphis, Tennessee.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Notable trips and passengers
The Lisa Marie’s primary purpose was to transport Elvis and his entourage to concert and appearance venues across the United States. It also served for family vacations and other personal trips. Notable passengers often included the members of Elvis’ band, his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, friends and family, collectively known as the “Memphis Mafia.”
The TCB Band (Taking Care of Business) was the core group of musicians who accompanied Elvis from 1969 until he died in 1977. Key members included:
- James Burton—Lead guitarist, known for his exceptional guitar work, was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
- Ronnie Tutt—Drummer played for Neil Diamond and other notable artists.
- Jerry Scheff—Bassist, was recognized for his contributions to Elvis’s sound and later worked with various famous musicians.
- John Wilkinson—Rhythm guitarist who was part of the band from its inception.
- Larry Muhoberac—Keyboardist who played a significant role in many of Elvis’s live performances.
- This band debuted during Elvis’s comeback performances in Las Vegas in 1969 and was instrumental in shaping his live sound during that era.
The Memphis Mafia
In addition to the TCB Band, Elvis had a close-knit group known as the Memphis Mafia, comprising friends, family, and associates who provided personal support and security. Some prominent members included:
- Joe Esposito-Chief Road manager and personal aide for many years.
- Red West – A childhood friend and one of Elvis’s first bodyguards.
- Marty Lacker – Close friend and aide, one of Elvis’s best men at his wedding.
- George Klein – A lifelong friend and radio DJ who often accompanied Elvis.
- Dr. Nick – Elvis’s physician, known for his controversial role in Elvis’s health management.
Last Flight of The Lisa Marie
The last flight of the Lisa Marie was particularly poignant, as it transported Priscilla Presley and Elvis’ friend George Hamilton from California to his funeral in 1977.
The Hound Dog II – Elvis’ Lockheed JetStar
While waiting for the Convair’s renovations, Elvis purchased a Lockheed JetStar in 1975 for approximately $900,000 (equivalent to about $4.3 million today). This aircraft was nicknamed Hound Dog II.
Specifications
- Crew: Two pilots and typically one flight attendant
- Capacity: 8–10 passengers
- Engines: 4 P&W JT12A-6 6A
- Cruise speed: 504 mph (811 km/h)
- Range: 2,995 miles
- Service ceiling: 43,000 ft (13,105 m)
The last jet – Lockheed JetStar L-1329
In 1976, just a year before his death, Elvis purchased his third and final aircraft, another Lockheed JetStar L-1329. This jet was the least flown of his fleet but arguably the most lavishly decorated.
Photo: Mecum Auctions
Features
Elvis outfitted his L-1329 Jetstar with
- Pink velvet seats
- Red velvet sofas and carpets
- Woodwork throughout the cabin
- A vibrant red exterior paint
Post-Elvis Era
After Elvis died in 1977, the fate of his aircraft varied. Elvis’ family initially sold the Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II, but they were later repurchased and displayed at Graceland. In 2015, after some uncertainty, the estate entered into an agreement for both aircraft to remain permanently at Graceland.
The Lockheed JetStar L-1329 had a more tumultuous journey. It was sent to the desert in New Mexico for storage, where it remained for about 35 years.
The jet, missing its engines and showing significant deterioration, was sold several times. In 2017, it sold for $430,000 to an undisclosed buyer. More recently, on January 8, 2023 (which would have been Elvis’ 88th birthday), the aircraft was sold again at auction for $260,000. It has since been modified into a road-going RV and was on display at Oshkosh 2024.
Legacy
Elvis Presley’s aircraft fleet represents his style and wealth and a significant era in music and aviation history. The Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II, now permanent fixtures at Graceland, continue to attract thousands of fans each year, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the King of Rock and Roll. While the modification of the third jet might not be to everyone’s taste, the interior is being kept in its original condition, giving more fans a chance to see it on the road.
These aircraft are a testament to Elvis Presley’s impact on popular culture and his enduring fame. They represent not just modes of transportation but symbols of an era when rock and roll royalty took to the skies in unparalleled style and luxury.