Jeffrey Epstein owned and operated a fleet of private aircraft that were central to his trafficking operation. The aircraft allowed him to move victims and associates across state lines and between countries, triggering federal jurisdiction and enabling the global scale of his network.
The Boeing 727
The most infamous aircraft in Epstein’s fleet was a Boeing 727 jet — a large, long-range aircraft capable of transatlantic travel. The plane became tabloid-nicknamed the “Lolita Express” in reporting about the case. Flight logs obtained through legal proceedings showed the plane carried a remarkable roster of passengers including Bill Clinton, Al Gore, Kevin Spacey, and dozens of others.
The 727 could accommodate large groups and was configured as a private luxury aircraft with seating, bedding areas, and lounge space. Ghislaine Maxwell was frequently aboard. Multiple victims described being abused on the aircraft.
Gulfstream Aircraft
Epstein also owned Gulfstream executive jets, which were used for shorter trips and travel to destinations where the larger 727 couldn’t operate. The Gulfstreams carried a smaller footprint and were used for more discreet travel.
Chief Pilot Larry Visoski
Larry Visoski served as Epstein’s chief pilot for approximately 25 years. He was deposed in civil litigation and testified at Ghislaine Maxwell’s trial. Visoski testified that he transported many of the named passengers and was generally aware of the nature of Epstein’s activities. His testimony was significant in establishing that the aircraft were regularly used to transport young women.
Helicopter Fleet
Epstein also maintained helicopters, used for travel between his private islands and nearby airports and marinas in the Virgin Islands. The helicopters allowed him to travel between Little Saint James and St. Thomas without using public transportation.
Why Aviation Mattered
The use of aircraft to transport victims across state lines — and to foreign countries — turned what might otherwise have been state crimes into federal sex trafficking offenses with far greater penalties. The 2019 SDNY indictment specifically cited interstate and foreign travel as establishing federal jurisdiction over Epstein’s crimes.
Flight Log Evidence
Flight logs subpoenaed from Epstein’s operation became among the most significant documentary evidence in the case, placing specific people on specific flights at specific times. The logs were referenced extensively in the 2024 unsealed documents.