British Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has sold his cherry-colored plane: what happened

By Tychyna TetianaDec 4, 2023 07:54 AMNews
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British Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has sold his cherry-colored plane: what happened
Lewis Hamilton. Source: instagram.com/lewishamilton

The renowned British Formula 1 driver, Lewis Hamilton, a member of the Mercedes team and a seven-time world champion (2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020), has decided to part ways with his private jet. He had previously acquired a Bombardier Challenger 605, which he had painted in a vibrant cherry color.

Throughout his career, the celebrated British athlete has amassed significant wealth, investing in various real estate properties and a diverse collection of cars. Recent reports indicate that he has chosen to relinquish ownership of his private jet, as reported by simpleflying.

In the course of his career, Lewis Hamilton accumulated substantial wealth, allowing him to acquire a residence in London's West End, a penthouse in Monaco, and another penthouse in New York with scenic views of the Hudson River.

Hamilton also boasts an impressive collection of automobiles, featuring models such as Shelby Cobras, Ferraris, and several Mercedes.

Details on the private jet purchase

According to Essentially Sports, Hamilton expressed his love for airplanes during an appearance on the late-night talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live. Shortly after the interview, the Mercedes team pilot went on to purchase a Bombardier Challenger 605 for a reported $29 million.

British Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has sold his cherry-colored plane: what happened
Bombardier Challenger 605. Source: Curimedia Wikimedia Commons

Earlier, the racer mentioned his dislike for the mundane white colors of the plane. Consequently, the first action he took was to repaint it in a cherry hue and register it under the designation G-LCDH. These letters symbolize his full name, Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton.

Details about the aircraft

The Challenger 605, developed by Bombardier based on the Challenger 604, boasts improvements such as an updated cockpit with expansive windows, a new tail fairing, and a Collins Pro Line 21 cockpit.

Capable of accommodating up to 19 passengers, the aircraft boasts a maximum speed of Mach 0.85 and an impressive range of 4,600 miles.

Airplane Scandal

The Formula 1 driver made headlines in 2017 after his inclusion in the Paradise Papers list, revealing information about potential tax evasion. It was disclosed that the plane was registered on the Isle of Man, where there is no capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or corporate tax.

Changing Priorities

Following this incident, the racer reassessed his lifestyle choices, opting to adopt a plant-based diet and renounce meat. In addition to embracing veganism, he committed to reducing his carbon footprint on the environment. Consequently, Hamilton decided to sell his Bombardier Challenger 605 airplane in 2019. The buyer is reported to be the British charter company SaxonAir Charter Limited, based at Norwich Airport (NWI).

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