August 9th 2024.
Are you an aviation enthusiast? Have you ever dreamed of living in a plane and flying it as your home? Well, that dream is now a reality thanks to Jon Kotwicki, a flight instructor who has recently purchased two decommissioned aircraft and transformed them into luxurious Airbnb accommodations.
Jon was in the process of creating his own flight school when he came up with the idea of buying an old, disused plane and refurbishing it for visitors to stay in. After sourcing a DHL and an Everts Air Cargo, he has successfully completed renovations on the first one and is now inviting guests to book their stay.
"I wanted to create a unique experience for people from all over the world," says 32-year-old Jon, who hails from Alaska. "Alaska is a beautiful place, but seeing it from the air is a whole different experience. I wanted to share that with others."
With a focus on catering to plane enthusiasts, Jon has invested in standout details such as private tours and flight lessons for his guests. "I wanted to make these accommodations special for pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and regular holidaymakers," he explains. "But at the same time, I wanted them to have the convenience of being able to drive to nearby amenities like supermarkets and restaurants."
The two planes are located in Wasilla, Alaska, with the DHL already fully renovated and ready to welcome up to seven guests in its three double beds and one sofa. The Everts Air Cargo is still a work in progress, but Jon plans to have it up and running soon.
The DHL, also known as a DC9, was sourced from Jon's local airport. It still maintains its original features, such as an open-plan living space where the seats used to be, DHL-branded walls, and a functional cockpit. With 26 windows, there is plenty of natural light, and the original overhead compartment lights are still in place for a touch of nostalgia.
But the most impressive feature has to be the sauna, located behind steel doors at the back of the plane. Complete with a fireplace and bench seating, it offers a unique and relaxing experience for guests. And that's not all - there's also an aircraft tire turned coffee table, a beer fridge in the cockpit, and a wing deck with stunning views of the Chugach Mountains.
Outside, guests can enjoy a decked seating area, BBQ, and twinkling fairy lights for a cozy evening under the stars. "Most guests have a hard time choosing their favorite feature of the plane," says Jon. "Their mouths usually hang open for a good 10-30 seconds before they exclaim, 'holy cow' or 'this is amazing!'"
Do you have a story to share? We would love to hear it! Get in touch by emailing [email address]. Come and experience a first-class stay in a transformed plane at Jon's Airbnb - it's an experience you won't forget.
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