Have you ever dreamed of spending the night in a real airplane? Well, JN and Stephanie have made that dream a reality in Alaska. They have transformed decommissioned airplanes into an extraordinary living space, combining a flight school with a unique overnight stay opportunity.
What makes their airplane house truly special is the attention to detail. It features a wing deck, an original cockpit with a flight simulator, and even a working cargo door for oversized luggage. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
Originally, JN and Stephanie planned to build runways, hangars, and cabins for their flight school students. But during construction, they had a brilliant idea. They decided to repurpose a dried-in building and turn it into an aircraft house to save costs. Little did they know that this decision would give birth to a remarkable experience for both students and guests.
The airplane house consists of a Boeing 727 and a DC9 that JN and Stephanie purchased as scrap metal for less than $100,000 each. However, the transportation expenses for getting these planes to Alaska were a significant part of their investment, totaling over $100,000 each. Although the exact figures weren’t disclosed, the couple estimates that costs for each aircraft exceed half a million dollars.
To ensure the stability of the house, JN and Stephanie drove 7-inch piles 20 feet into the ground. They then welded and bolted the airplanes to these pipes to withstand earthquakes and strong winds.
Covering approximately 700 square feet, the interior of the airplane house is truly impressive. It features a mudroom, a mechanical room, and a spacious living area. The original cargo door is preserved, and the cockpit is equipped with a flight simulator. JN and Stephanie even have plans to integrate the flight controls with Microsoft’s simulator. So, you can experience what it’s like to fly without leaving the comfort of the house. It’s a true beauty!
This Alaskan marvel stands as an exclusive and captivating lodging option for those seeking an unforgettable experience. JN and Stephanie’s innovative use of old airplanes delivers a distinctive and comfortable living space, providing an unparalleled stay in Alaska.
The unconventional structural support system for the airplane house involves driving 7-inch piles deep underground. The airplanes are then firmly affixed to these pipes through welding and bolting. Four additional 7-inch piles support the weight at the center, while two smaller 4.5-inch piles reinforce the wing supports. This anchoring technique ensures stability, guaranteeing that the house remains level and stationary, no matter what.
Comfort and safety go hand in hand in JN and Stephanie’s airplane house. Their innovative structural support system provides a secure and immovable foundation, promising a stable and comfortable stay for guests.
The airplane house is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. Boasting original flight controls connected to Microsoft Flight Simulator, the house offers amenities like a cockpit coffee station and a beer fridge. It’s a true haven for aviation enthusiasts and anyone looking for a unique getaway.
While the initial cost of the airplane hulls is under $100,000 each, transportation expenses and other necessities can push the total expenditure per aircraft to over half a million dollars. But JN and Stephanie believe that experiences are more valuable than a return on investment. The expenses incurred result in a living area that promises an exceptional and unparalleled stay.
In this incredible space, you’ll find an original cargo door, a mudroom that doubles as dry goods storage, and a mechanical room within the tail cone. The mechanical room houses essential utilities like a boiler, water heater, and electrical panel box. Everything you need for a worry-free stay.
If you’re intrigued and want to see more, check out the video below to take a look inside JN and Stephanie’s airplane house. Don’t forget to share this amazing story with your friends and family!
