Discretion is woven into every aspect of high value asset ownership. For clients, privacy, professionalism and specialist advisory support determine the true value of owning or accessing a business aircraft.
In this article, we explore how influential leaders around the world engage with aviation. While public confirmation of aircraft ownership is often limited, private and business aviation remains a powerful tool for efficiency, confidentiality and strategic mobility. Here, we spotlight global leaders who use aviation as a strategic advantage, shaping how they move, operate, and protect both their privacy and their time.
Taylor Swift, Dassault Falcon 900
Taylor Swift, one of the world’s most successful entertainers, is widely associated with a Dassault Falcon 900, along with previous operation of other Dassault models. Using the aircraft enables her to manage global touring schedules while maintaining security and privacy. She is also known for offsetting travel related carbon emissions through purchased carbon credits.
Kanika Tekriwal, JetSetGo
Kanika Tekriwal is the founder and CEO of JetSetGo, India’s leading private jet and helicopter management company. Although media narratives often describe her as owning ten jets, this refers to the aircraft under JetSetGo’s fleet management rather than personal ownership. JetSetGo supports VIP missions, medevac operations and curated travel experiences such as wedding flights and sightseeing packages, redefining aviation access across India.
Oprah Winfrey, Bombardier Global Express XRS
Oprah Winfrey owns a Bombardier Global Express XRS often called her ‘Sky Palace’. Much more than a mode of transport, the jet serves as her sanctuary and workspace. Oprah is known for her hospitality rituals on board, including slippers gifted to guests. She has also lent the aircraft for humanitarian and medical relief missions.
Michelle Obama, Fractional and Charter Access
Michelle Obama does not personally own a private jet. She uses fractional ownership programs and chartered aircraft for global engagements and philanthropic initiatives. Her travel patterns illustrate how high profile figures make use of aviation without maintaining direct ownership.
Serena Williams, Frequent Private Jet Use
Serena Williams, global athlete and entrepreneur, frequently travels by private jet to manage international commitments, investment activity and family life. While ownership has not been publicly confirmed, she is regularly reported to fly aboard long range aircraft such as the Gulfstream G650 through charter or partner arrangements.
Beyoncé, Bombardier Challenger 850
Beyoncé, a self made musician and entrepreneur, has access to a Bombardier Challenger 850 that she shares with Jay Z. This aircraft is well documented and supports their wide ranging business, performance and philanthropic activities.
Celine Dion, Bombardier Global Express
Celine Dion has long been associated with a Bombardier Global Express. The aircraft’s long range capability and spacious cabin make it ideal for her multilingual international career and extensive touring calendar.
Sheryl Sandberg, Former Meta Executive Travel
Sheryl Sandberg previously used Meta operated aircraft for her international travel as Chief Operating Officer. There is no public confirmation of personal aircraft ownership. Her usage pattern reflects the reliance that senior executives place on aviation for intensive global schedules.
Kim Kardashian, Gulfstream G650ER
Kim Kardashian owns a Gulfstream G650ER, known as ‘Kim Air’, which features a highly customised interior aligned with her signature minimalist design aesthetic. Beyond transportation, the jet is an extension of her brand experience and has been used to host curated events including product previews and private gatherings. Her sister Kylie Jenner owns a Bombardier Global 7500, known as ‘Kylie Air’.
Sandra Kinzi, Gulfstream G450
Sandra Kinzi is known online for her design inspired aviation content and is associated with a Gulfstream G450 featuring a distinctive monochromatic interior. Public information is limited due to privacy considerations. Rumoured interest in future upgrades such as a Gulfstream G550 remains speculative.
Lady Gaga, Gulfstream V and Tour Aircraft
Lady Gaga frequently travels on a Gulfstream V, particularly during world tours, and has accumulated extensive flight mileage. Stories about a customised Boeing 757 gifted by Live Nation circulate widely, although some remain anecdotal. Aviation continues to support her demanding creative, touring and philanthropic commitments.
Wu Yajun, Corporate Aviation Access
Wu Yajun, co founder of Longfor Properties and one of China’s most successful business leaders, uses private aviation primarily through corporate channels for executive travel, investor relations and board activity. There is no public confirmation of personal aircraft ownership. Her situation illustrates a common practice in Asia, where corporate rather than personal registration entities are preferred.
Natalia Fileva, S7 Airlines
The late Natalia Fileva, leader of S7 Airlines, was a prominent aviation executive who regularly travelled on long range business jets including Gulfstream models and an Epic LT turboprop. Her inclusion is a historical reference to her influence and aviation legacy.
As these profiles show, the way individuals use an aircraft can vary significantly. Understanding those differences is essential. We believe ownership begins with mastery of the client relationship. Without a precise understanding of personal objectives, operational demands and long term ambitions, we cannot deliver the right recommendations across ownership entities, EU and UK VAT, or customs planning.
For reasons of discretion, we cannot confirm whether we do or do not work with any of the people mentioned in this article. What we can say is that we would be honoured to support clients of this calibre, and any forward thinking business owner or charterer seeking clarity, control and confidence in their aviation decisions.
If you are looking to own, buy or sell a business aircraft contact Martin@martynfiddler.com
