What many would see as scrap metal, Bruce Campbell, a 64-year-old retired electrical engineer, saw as an opportunity. On a 10-acre property near Hillsboro, Oregon, he transformed a decommissioned Boeing 727 into a fully functional residence — an idea that continues to fascinate visitors worldwide.
From Vision to Reality
Campbell purchased the land in his twenties for $23,000, dreaming of building something out of the ordinary. Passionate about re-purposing machinery, he envisioned living in an aircraft long before he knew anyone else had attempted it. Years later, he discovered that Joanne Ussery, a hairdresser from Mississippi, had also converted a Boeing 727 into her home after losing her house in a fire. Inspired but undeterred, Campbell decided to adapt his plans.
Acquiring the Aircraft
In 1999, Campbell invested $100,000 to purchase a retired Boeing 727 from Olympic Airways. The total cost, including the complex transportation from Athens, Greece to Oregon, came to about $220,000. Despite the expense, Campbell believes the project was worth every cent.
Life Inside the Aircraft Home
The interior of the jet is simple but functional. Campbell retained several original features, such as the aircraft’s toilet and seating, and added basic living necessities including a washing machine and sink. His kitchen setup is modest — equipped with a toaster and a microwave — and his diet mainly consists of cereal and canned food.
Although he does not spend all of his time inside the plane, the project reflects his creativity and determination. What began as an unusual experiment has become a long-term personal achievement.
More Than Just a Home
For Campbell, the aircraft is more than a place to live. It represents innovation, sustainability, and a reminder that even old machines can find new purpose. While living in a jet may not appeal to everyone, his project continues to inspire curiosity and admiration around the world.