Living in Airplanes: The Ultimate Passion Project

The Unconventional Dream

For aviation enthusiasts, the ultimate passion project goes beyond mere admiration for planes - it involves transforming a retired aircraft into a unique private home. Imagine living in a Boeing 727, McDonnell Douglas MD-80, or DC-9, and experiencing the thrill of unconventional luxury living. This article delves into the remarkable stories of individuals who turned this extraordinary dream into reality, redefining the concept of residential living.

Joe Axline's two planes: One to live in, one to renovate.

The unconventional dream of living in airplanes began with Jo Ann Ussery, who, after losing her house to a fire, embarked on a peculiar yet inspiring endeavor: to inhabit an aircraft. Her journey led her to purchase an old Boeing 727, which was destined for the scrapyard. With determination and creativity, she transformed the aircraft into a fully functional home, complete with over 1,500 square feet of living space, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and even a hot tub in the place of the cockpit. Ussery's remarkable accomplishment paved the way for others to follow suit, sparking a wave of innovative residential projects within the aviation community.

Jumbo Stay is a hotel in Stockholm's Arlanda Airport.

The Sky-High Transformations

Following in Ussery's footsteps, Bruce Campbell, an electrical engineer with a private pilot license, embarked on his own aviation-inspired venture. He transformed a Boeing 727 into his unconventional home, nestled in the woods of Hillsboro, Oregon. Campbell's dedication to living in a jetliner for over 20 years reflects the allure of unconventional living and the unwavering passion for aviation. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of unconventional living spaces and the indelible impact of Ussery's innovative project.

Not far from Campbell's unique abode, Joe Axline pursued an even more extravagant endeavor: living in not one, but two airplanes. His MD-80 and DC-9, situated side by side in Brookshire, Texas, serve as a testament to his grand plan, aptly named 'Project Freedom.' Axline's vision extends beyond mere residence, as he envisions transforming the DC-9 into a recreational haven, featuring amenities such as a movie theater and a music room. His ambitious project exemplifies the boundless creativity and limitless potential inherent in unconventional living spaces.

Aerodynamic Living: Beyond the Horizon

The allure of living in airplanes extends beyond individual endeavors, encompassing a rich tapestry of unconventional residential spaces. From Howard Hughes' remodeled Boeing 307 Stratoliner to the extravagant motoryacht 'The Cosmic Muffin,' the legacy of airplane homes transcends individual stories, weaving a narrative of innovation and creativity. Moreover, the existence of airplane-themed hotels, such as Costa Verde in Costa Rica and Jumbo Stay in Sweden, offers a glimpse into the allure of aviation-inspired hospitality, catering to travelers seeking a truly unique experience.

While the prospect of living in an airplane home presents numerous challenges, from logistical hurdles to sourcing the right airframe, the passion and dedication of individuals like Campbell and Axline serve as a beacon of inspiration. Their resolute pursuit of unconventional living spaces encourages others to embrace their aspirations, despite the obstacles. As the world of aerodynamic living continues to captivate the imagination, it stands as a testament to the boundless creativity and unwavering spirit of aviation enthusiasts who dare to defy conventional norms and transform the skies into their home.