I reckon that a large proportion of the readers of this column are too young to remember “The Millionaire,” a TV show that premiered in 1955 and ran until 1961. The plot surrounded a guy who gave away a million dollars to people that he did not know. The lucky “millionaires” were the Nouveau riche of their day, never having to work again since they were on easy street. Fast forward to today, and a million dollars, while not a small sum of money, is a starter account for some.
What got me thinking about this was an article this past Sunday in the New York Times reporting that wealth is now bifurcated into the uber ultra-rich and the, just plain old rich. The booming aviation and yacht markets are now segregated into serving the top one-hundredth of one-percent versus the plain old rich.
The uber rich are driving long waiting lists for the largest and most expensive jets, including jumbos, and yachts in the 250 to 500 foot category. For example, Boeing has several orders from the “uber- ultras” for its 777-300ER jets that accommodate 400 passengers, although I somehow doubt that they will be fitted out cattle-car style. I bet the “Haves,” who are stuck with tiny little Gulfstreams, are really jealous of the Have-Mores!
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