Bruce Campbell, a 64-year-old retired electrical engineer with a passion for unconventional projects, has always been someone who thinks outside the box. At just 20 years old, he made a bold decision to purchase 10 acres of densely wooded land near Hillsboro, Oregon, for $23,000. At the time, he had no idea that this land would one day become the site of one of the most unique homes in the world—a fully repurposed airplane turned into a stunning living space.
Campbell’s lifelong love for tinkering and innovative repurposing has driven many of his creative endeavors. As a child, he was fascinated with taking things apart, understanding how they worked, and rebuilding them in new ways. Initially, he planned to use his Oregon property to build a home from retired shipping containers. The concept seemed groundbreaking, but after learning that others had already executed similar ideas, he sought something even more unique. Rather than feeling discouraged, this realization pushed him toward a more ambitious and distinctive vision.
Two decades after purchasing his land, Campbell came across a story that would completely reshape his plans. He read about Joanne Ussery, a hairstylist from Mississippi who lost her home in a devastating fire. Instead of rebuilding in a traditional way, she took an unconventional approach—she transformed a decommissioned Boeing 727 into a home. Her airplane house, located beside a peaceful river, became a symbol of resilience and ingenuity. Inspired by her story, Campbell knew he had found his next big project.
In 1999, he made the bold decision to follow in Ussery’s footsteps and turn an airplane into his home. After extensive research, he purchased a retired Boeing 727 from Olympic Airways for $100,000. However, acquiring the aircraft was only the first step. The plane was located in Athens, Greece, and transporting it to Oregon was a monumental challenge. The logistical hurdles were immense, and the transportation costs alone amounted to an additional $120,000. By the time the project was underway, Campbell had invested a total of $220,000. Despite the high costs and complexities, he remained convinced that it was a worthwhile investment in creating something truly extraordinary.
Once the airplane arrived on his land, the real work began. Campbell dedicated himself to converting the aircraft’s interior into a fully functional and comfortable living space while preserving its unique character. The result is a home that combines the futuristic feel of an airplane cabin with the warmth and practicality of a traditional house. Stepping inside is like entering a space where engineering meets artistry—a fusion of technological brilliance and creative vision.
One of the most significant aspects of Campbell’s project is his commitment to sustainability. By repurposing a retired airplane, he has given new life to a structure that would otherwise have been discarded or left to decay. His innovative approach minimizes waste while demonstrating how unconventional materials can be utilized in housing. Campbell believes that retired airplanes are an underutilized resource, and his project proves that these massive machines can be transformed into functional, inspiring homes.
The interior of Campbell’s airplane home is nothing short of fascinating. While he has preserved many elements of the original aircraft design, he has also made thoughtful modifications to ensure livability. The seating has been removed to create open, functional spaces, and the original cockpit remains intact as a tribute to the plane’s history. Large, transparent windows flood the space with natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Every detail, from the flooring to the storage solutions, showcases Campbell’s meticulous attention to design and his passion for blending practicality with creativity.
For Campbell, living in an airplane is more than just a personal project—it’s a challenge to traditional thinking and an invitation for others to embrace unconventional ideas. He enjoys sharing his story and frequently welcomes visitors who are curious to see the transformation firsthand. His airplane home has become a local landmark, attracting attention from people around the world who want to experience this one-of-a-kind living space.
While his journey hasn’t been without obstacles, Campbell has found immense fulfillment in making his dream a reality. From purchasing his land to navigating the complexities of transporting and converting a retired airplane, every step has been a testament to his perseverance and passion for innovation. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with vision and determination, anything is possible—even turning an aircraft into a home.
Today, Campbell continues to live in his airplane home, enjoying the uniqueness of his surroundings and the inspiration it brings to others. His project has become a symbol of ingenuity and sustainability, proving that stepping beyond conventional ideas can lead to incredible opportunities. His work challenges us all to look at the world differently and to consider how we can repurpose resources in creative and meaningful ways.
Bruce Campbell’s airplane home stands as a shining example of what happens when creativity meets determination. It is not just a place to live—it is a celebration of innovation and the endless possibilities that emerge when we dare to dream big.
