Politifact calls Creflo Dollar jet request 'a ridiculous claim'

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — When a local megachurch asked members to donate money to buy a $65 million jet, it prompted criticism from around the world.

Now, Channel 2 Action News is looking at the truthfulness of claims by Pastor Creflo Dollar’s spokesperson that the jet was needed to carry food and supplies.

In the fundraising appeal, World Changers Church said the plane it currently has is more than 30 years old. It was damaged in an accident on a London runway.

Criticism over the request for help to buy the luxury jet was instant.

“He could preach the word right here on the corner. He don't need no jet,” said Herb Hicks.

A Creflo Dollar spokesperson said in an interview on March 13 that Dollar needed the Gulfstream G650 to carry thousands of pounds of food and other supplies, as well as the word of God, worldwide.

Some followers say they agree the jet is needed.

“I look at it like this here. God might send him all over the world just to teach the word of God,” said Catherine Whitman.

Aviation experts told the Politifact team that the jet Dollar wanted to buy is one of the best and fastest around, but they said it is not for cargo.

“This is an airplane that's meant to carry golf bags and a few pieces of luggage per passenger. Not large amounts of food or medicine,” said Jim Tharpe, Georgia Politifact Editor.

The church has not said how much is carried on a typical mission.

The Politifact team gave the church's claim about the reason it needs the jet a “pants on fire” rating. That’s the lowest rating on the Truth-O-Meter.

“It’s just a ridiculous claim,” said Tharpe.

This type of corporate jet is so exclusive, only 100 have been manufactured and delivered.

WSBTV