NASA Administrator Offers Flights on Private Jets to Government Employees

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman has announced that he will provide flights on private fighter jets for government employees engaged in “special work,” according to a statement from the agency on Tuesday.

Isaacman, a billionaire and tech entrepreneur recently confirmed by the Senate to oversee NASA, intends to offer his advanced plane—which can fly at supersonic speeds—for various public events without charging taxpayers.

“Secretary Isaacman has a rich background in aviation and has kindly made his F-5 aircraft available to motivate NASA employees to participate in America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, as well as to inspire future generations to pursue STEM careers and engage in one of humanity’s greatest adventures,” stated Bethany Stevens, a NASA spokesperson.

Stevens also mentioned that “all expenses related to these flights will be covered by the administrator and will incur no cost to taxpayers.”

Alongside providing the jet, Isaacman donates his annual salary of $221,900 to Space Camp, an educational program in Huntsville, Alabama, dedicated to advancing NASA’s mission more efficiently, according to a representative from the agency.

“So, keep an eye out for rocket launches and airshows along the Space Coast. For those experienced NASA employees who excel in their roles, there’s a chance to take flight,” Stevens added.

The spokesperson’s announcement included a photo of Isaacman in the cockpit of a two-seater jet adorned with the NASA logo, though it remains unclear if this is indeed the plane he owns. Earlier in the week, Isaacman shared images and videos on social media featuring Eric Trump and Lara Trump aboard a similar jet.

“Today we had the chance to fly @LaraLeaTrump and @EricTrump over NASA’s Kennedy Space Center to showcase where monumental history is being created,” Isaacman wrote.

Interestingly, Isaacman’s nomination to lead NASA was initially withdrawn by President Trump last summer due to concerns related to his political donations to the Democratic Party, but he was renominated in November. In 2024, Isaacman made headlines by becoming the first civilian to conduct a spacewalk during a SpaceX mission.