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Apple’s Gulfstream Jet Bill Last Quarter: $189,000

Every once in a while a report comes in about how much Apple CEO Steve Jobs has spent on fueling up his Gulfstream jet and flying around the world. Last quarter’s bill was $189,000. Not that much when compared to $550,000 in air travel expenses during the December quarter.

Whether you choose to believe the speculation or “analysis” from Morgan Stanley analyst, Kathryn Huberty (who is notoriously known for being flat-out braindead when it comes to Apple), it is possible that there is simply no indication that correlates flight patterns to business deals. Huberty previously explained that a dramatic increase of plane travel expenditures may be an indication that the Apple machine may be in motion. Chances are she is most likely inaccurate in her speculation, but it’s still interesting to look at.

Every quarter Apple reports how much it reimbursed CEO Steve Jobs for money spent on travels with the Gulfstream jet. But he may not be the only one using the private jet throughout the year, many believe the company’s flying patterns can be aligned with new business deals, thus giving us an inkling to when things are brewing in Cupertino. But the company has so many new business relationships around the world, that check-ins and visits are certain to become common amongst the companies. Surely CEO Steve Jobs isn’t the only one flying around the world talking to representatives of each company involved. While he may be instrumental in new business negotiations or innovations, it’s hard to imagine Jobs traveling when he is not needed. Apple has made sure that there are people in place to secure these positions with carriers and manufacturers around the world.

SAI explains, “Why are we even bothering to look at this? Earlier this year, Morgan Stanley analyst Kathryn Huberty suggested that if Jobs was flying more, Apple shareholders should get excited. Why? Jobs is “integral to negotiations with international carriers and supply chain partners,” she noted. So when Steve’s flying, Apple’s new-gadget gears are cranking.”

On November 3rd, Apple issued an official statement explaining that no new products were being introduced before the holiday season. This squashed any rumors of possible iMac and Mac mini updates within the next few weeks.

While it’s not entirely easy to guess what is up Apple’s sleeve at the moment. MacBlogz did receive an anonymous tip from someone claiming to work at a third party accessory supplier. The tip pointed to storage boosts at Macworld 2009.