These days, traveling by air is the preferred method of transportation for everyone who needs to travel long distances in a reasonable amount of time. While most people are forced to fly commercial class airlines, private planes offer the wealthy the opportunity to fly in style.

Regardless of whether you fly commercial or privately, here are some of the most expensive planes that air commuters can choose from today.

Custom Airbus A340-300 – $350 to $500 million

From airbus.com

One of the most expensive passenger planes currently in use is a customized Airbus A340-300. Currently, it’s the largest plane in Russia and is estimated to be worth between $350 to $500 million dollars due to the significant upgrades it has undergone since it was initially purchased.

Airbuses that are used in commercial applications are capable of flying 9,000 miles and can carry up to 375 passengers comfortably.

The  Boeing 747 – 8 – $153 million

From boeing.com

At a cost of $153 million dollars, it comes as no surprise that this aircraft is outfitted with all of the latest technology and has an exclusive design. Dubbed the “Dreamliner,” the VIP version of this aircraft boasts amenities that are common in many homes including spiral staircases, luxury sleeping accommodations, vaulted ceilings, and an onboard media room.

This same aircraft, when used in commercial use, is ideal for International travel due to it’s large size and can seat as many as 467 passengers.

Military Planes Are No Laughing Matter

It should come as no surprise that military aircraft is among the most high-tech and expensive aircraft currently in use today. This type of aircraft is specialized to meet the needs of military forces for defensive and offensive measures.

The  F-22 Raptor – $350 million

From wikipedia.com

Perhaps one of the most recognizable military aircraft is the F-22 Raptor. At a cost of $350 million dollars, this combat aircraft is considered one of the best in the entire world. Lockheed Martin developed this tactical combat plane for use by the US Air Force. It can be flown in all weather and features a single seat and twin engines.

This aircraft is equipped to carry out numerous military tactics including reaching Supersonic speeds, completing long-distance flights, and destroying enemy cruise missiles.  The F-22 is the ultimate stealth aircraft since it is designed to avoid detection from almost all types of radar detection in use today. Pilots of these awesome flying machines must meet stringent requirements set forth by the United States Air Force.

No matter whether you are interested in aircraft as a commuter, as a pilot, or as a simple enthusiast, you will find that planes are expensive and constantly evolving to meet the needs of public, private, and governmental interests.