You’ll Never Believe What This Man Turned a Retired Jet Into

 

Some people see a house as four walls and a roof. Bruce Campbell saw something entirely different.

Decades ago, in his early 20s, Campbell purchased 10 acres of dense forest in Oregon for just $23,000. While most would’ve imagined a traditional cabin or home, he envisioned something unconventional from the start.

At first, he planned to build using cargo containers. But everything changed when he read about a woman who had converted a Boeing 727 into a living space. That idea lit a fire in him—and set him on a course few would dare to follow.

A Plane With a New Purpose

In 1999, Campbell acquired a decommissioned Boeing 727 from Olympic Airways for $100,000. But buying the plane was only the beginning. Shipping it from Greece to Oregon cost another $120,000, bringing the total to $220,000—an enormous investment, but one Bruce believed in wholeheartedly.

Once the aircraft arrived on his land, the real work began.

Campbell carefully restored the plane’s structure while adapting it for everyday living. He preserved many of the original features, including the cockpit, which remains fully intact. Sunlight pours through the aircraft windows, and inside you’ll find a modest setup: a compact kitchen, a functional bathroom, and a cozy sleeping nook.

Built to Last—And to Inspire

For Bruce, this wasn’t just about creating a one-of-a-kind home. It was about sustainability. Planes are designed to endure tough conditions, and by giving this 727 a second life, he prevented it from becoming scrap metal. His project is a testament to creative reuse and long-term durability.

The process wasn’t easy. Moving a massive jet across continents and fitting it into a forested lot came with no shortage of setbacks. But Campbell pushed through every challenge, using problem-solving and perseverance to shape his dream into reality.

A Home Unlike Any Other

Today, Bruce Campbell’s airplane home is more than a shelter—it’s a vision brought to life. It reminds us that “home” doesn’t have to follow the rules. With imagination, resourcefulness, and a willingness to take risks, even a retired aircraft can become a warm, inviting place to live.

And perhaps most importantly, it proves that thinking outside the box—or the fuselage—can lead to something truly extraordinary.