Louis Vuitton plane-shaped bag costs more than an actual plane

The novelty-shaped piece from the autumn / winter collection has divided the internet

The plane-shaped bag by Louis Vuitton, made for the autumn / winter 2021 season, has been trending since early April. Courtesy Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton is making headlines again, but perhaps this time not for all the right reasons.

Social media is alight regarding a man’s bag by the brand, which is in the shape of a plane and sells for a cool $39,000.

Created for the autumn / winter 2021 season by menswear designer Virgil Abloh, the bag debuted in January.

For the past few weeks, there has been debate about the bag on social media, dividing commentary as people are either amazed, or appalled by it.

The piece is a modern update of the company trademark designs. Louis Vuitton has a long link with travel, having earned its name making trunks and cases. In many ways, the bag is a natural extension of that, as well as a clear nod to Abloh’s famous off-kilter humour.

Made in the company’s signature monogram canvas, it features a cockpit, wings and even engines, and comes with carry handles as well as a shoulder strap.

Made during a time when flying has been severely curtailed, it could be seen as either a clever commentary on life during the pandemic, or more cynically as a ploy to grab headlines, depending on your viewpoint.

Naturally, the design has sparked a social media debate. While some are complimentary of the savoir faire, others were less impressed, with a number of posts pointing out it is cheaper to buy an actual plane than the luggage replica.

Twitter user @vah0603 commented, "You can buy an actual plane for less".

One post, which dates back to April 2, simply said, "April Fools' was yesterday."

A comically photoshopped image has also circulated, showing a plane mocked up in the Louis Vuitton monogram print:

According to the aeronautical market website PlaneCheck.com, a 1967 Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee is currently for sale in the UK for €32,817 ($39,572), while a 1965 Mooney M20E Super 21 can be purchased in Spain for €30,000 ($36,127).

For those who do not want the hassle of owning their own plane, Icarus Jet can arrange a one-way journey by private jet between Dubai and London for about $41,000 – the cost of the plane bag, plus two pairs of Fastlane sneakers ($953 each).

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