Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote’s jet could fetch up to $78 million

In the world of luxury aviation, few aircraft hold the same prestige as the 2020 Bombardier Global. This particular jet, owned by Africa’s wealthiest man, Aliko Dangote, is now up for sale, offering an exclusive opportunity for ultra-high-net-worth buyers to acquire a top-tier aircraft with a remarkable history. The asking price for this impressive piece of aviation is set at up to $78 million.

The 2020 Bombardier Global 7500 stands as the epitome of modern business aviation, known for its outstanding range, sleek design, and unrivaled comfort. Dangote’s decision to part with the jet marks a shift in his collection of luxury assets and signals his evolving approach to both private travel and capital management. With a net worth of $23.2 billion, according to Forbes, Dangote continues to balance personal indulgence with a keen eye on long-term financial goals.

Sitting in Oklahoma City, the Global 7500 is listed as a pristine, single-owner aircraft. Dangote bought it brand new and has maintained it with the utmost care, storing it in a private hangar and ensuring expert maintenance throughout its service. With just 1,527 flight hours and 487 landings, the jet remains in outstanding condition, which is a major selling point in the pre-owned jet market, where usage and upkeep are key factors in determining value.

The aircraft’s exterior retains its original 2020 paint job—a commanding white body with rich blue and Peking red stripes that exude quiet confidence. Inside, the cabin is spacious and thoughtfully designed to accommodate 18 passengers comfortably. The layout includes a four-seat club area with fold-out tables for business meetings, a six-seat dining suite, and a private stateroom for rest. In-flight connectivity is enhanced by SmartLink Plus entertainment, ensuring seamless communication and entertainment during long trips.

Every detail aboard reflects luxury and practicality. Heated flooring welcomes passengers at the entry and in the rear lavatory, while a built-in bidet—a rare feature even among high-end jets—adds an extra layer of sophistication. The galley, equipped with a steam oven, microwave, warming drawer, and ample storage for fine dining, ensures gourmet service at 40,000 feet. Each element of the aircraft’s interior was carefully chosen to provide maximum functionality without sacrificing comfort, aligning perfectly with Dangote’s business philosophy.

Dangote streamlines private jet collection

This is not Dangote’s first reshuffle of his aviation holdings. In 2023, he listed his Bombardier Global Express XRS for sale. He had purchased the aircraft in 2010 for $45.5 million to mark his 53rd birthday. Though the XRS was still an elite aircraft, it lacked the technological advancements and range of the Global 7500, which boasts a maximum range of over 7,700 nautical miles and a top speed of Mach 0.925.

Dangote’s decision mirrors a broader trend among global billionaires and top executives: refining rather than expanding their luxury portfolios. For some, it’s about sustainability and minimizing their footprint, while for others, it’s about focusing on fewer, more valuable assets. In Dangote’s case, it seems to be a strategic adjustment—streamlining his private aviation collection while ensuring his remaining assets continue to reflect his status and personal brand.

Nigerian billionaires drive luxury jet demand

Though Dangote remains a towering figure in African business and global industry, he is not alone in his passion for luxury jets. Fellow Nigerian moguls like Folorunsho Alakija, vice chair of Famfa Oil, and telecom billionaire Mike Adenuga also own high-end Bombardier jets, including the Global Express XRS and the Challenger 604. This growing trend among Nigeria’s elite not only reflects the country’s concentration of wealth but also a growing demand for mobility and global access in the utmost comfort.

Among these luxurious aircraft, the Bombardier Global 7500 stands out as a symbol of excellence. For prospective buyers, acquiring Dangote’s jet is more than just acquiring a vehicle for private travel. It’s a chance to own a piece of history, previously in the hands of one of the world’s most influential industrialists. With a market value of up to $78 million, this aircraft offers a rare opportunity for collectors, executives, or institutions seeking an exceptional jet that combines performance, prestige, and legacy.
(Billionaires Africa)