Inhabitants of the Skies: The Lives of Those Residing in Airplanes

Jo Ann Ussery faced an unconventional challenge after losing her home to a fire – she decided to transform an old Boeing 727 slated for the scrapyard into a fully functional living space. With determination and six months of hands-on renovation, she converted the airplane into a home boasting over 1,500 square feet, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a hot tub in the former cockpit, all accomplished for less than $30,000, equivalent to around $60,000 today.

Ussery’s unique project garnered attention, inspiring others like Bruce Campbell, an electrical engineer with a private pilot license. Campbell, influenced by Ussery’s story, has been living in his Boeing 727 in Hillsboro, Oregon, for over two decades. His project, totaling $220,000, included the purchase of the plane and various renovations. Campbell reflects on his initial lack of awareness about the plane’s history and outdated interior, requiring extensive work before becoming a habitable space.

Despite the challenges, Campbell has no regrets and stands firm in his commitment to airplane living. He even offers lodging in his aircraft for visitors and hosts public events in the summer, turning the forested area around his plane into a venue for concerts and attractions.

Another individual embracing the airplane lifestyle is Joe Axline, residing in Texas with not one but two aircraft – an MD-80 and DC-9. Having lived in the MD-80 for over a decade, Axline plans to renovate the DC-9 into a multifunctional space with features like a movie theater and music room, a venture he dubs “Project Freedom.” With a project cost of less than a quarter of a million dollars, Axline appreciates the cost-effectiveness of his airplane home.

Axline’s planes attract curious onlookers, and he gladly offers tours to those intrigued by his unconventional living arrangement. Expressing the efficient use of space in his airplane, Axline emphasizes the functionality and comfort of his lifestyle, with the added benefit of minimal running expenses.

While living in an airplane may seem extravagant, it is not an isolated phenomenon. Examples include Howard Hughes’ Boeing 307 Stratoliner turned “Flying Penthouse” and Dave Drimmer’s “The Cosmic Muffin,” a plane-boat hybrid. American country singer Red Lane also lived in a converted DC-8, showcasing the enduring appeal of airplane living.

For those intrigued by the idea, challenges lie ahead, from sourcing the right airframe to finding a suitable location. Bruce Campbell encourages aspiring airplane dwellers, emphasizing the need for passion and perseverance in overcoming the logistical hurdles. Despite the potential difficulties, he offers unwavering advice: “Do it. Don’t let anybody shake your confidence. Work out all the logistics, and just do it.” Whether a unique dream or a growing trend, living inside an airplane presents both challenges and possibilities for those seeking an extraordinary lifestyle.