CARS24, the renowned online platform for buying and selling used cars, just pulled off one of the most audacious April Fools’ pranks of 2025. In a surprising twist, the company announced ‘Planes24,’ a fictional service allowing users to buy and sell pre-owned aircraft with just a few clicks.
The elaborate prank was executed with impressive detail, featuring a dedicated website showcasing various aircraft listings—from private jets to commercial airliners—each complete with descriptions, pricing, and a seamless checkout process. The campaign quickly went viral, sparking excitement, curiosity, and even momentary belief among some users.
A Marketing Masterstroke
CARS24’s ‘Planes24’ prank was more than just a joke; it was a clever marketing stunt that demonstrated the brand’s creativity and ability to engage its audience. The campaign gained significant traction on social media, with people speculating whether the move was real. LinkedIn and Twitter were flooded with reactions ranging from bewilderment to admiration for the company’s bold approach.
Industry professionals and everyday users alike shared their takes. Some humorously contemplated the idea of casually browsing used planes, while others marveled at the creativity behind the campaign. The stunt not only entertained but also reinforced CARS24’s position as an innovative and engaging brand.
The Reveal
Eventually, CARS24 revealed the joke, making it clear that while they remain committed to revolutionizing the car-buying and selling experience, aviation is not on their immediate roadmap. The brand used the opportunity to reinforce its expertise in the automobile sector, emphasizing its seamless digital-first car-selling solutions.
Lessons in Viral Marketing
The ‘Planes24’ campaign serves as an excellent case study in viral marketing. By leveraging an unexpected industry shift, humor, and well-executed digital content, CARS24 successfully captured widespread attention. The prank highlighted the power of creative storytelling in brand engagement, proving that a well-crafted campaign can generate buzz, boost brand recall, and entertain audiences simultaneously.
With this successful April Fools’ stunt, CARS24 has set a high bar for brand creativity. The question now is—what’s next? Could ‘Boats24’ or ‘Trains24’ be on the horizon? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: CARS24 knows how to grab attention in style.
