In a world where unconventional homes are gaining popularity, Jo Ann Ussery’s story stands out. Long before tiny homes and shipping containers became trendy, Ussery transformed a retired Boeing 727 into a luxurious abode.
After her home in Mississippi was destroyed in 1993, Ussery needed a new place to live with her two children. With limited funds, she considered a trailer, but it wasn’t spacious enough. Then, her air traffic controller brother-in-law suggested living on a plane. Ussery was intrigued and found a Boeing 727 for sale at just $2,000.
She named it “Little Trump” and embarked on a costly and time-consuming renovation, investing around $60,000. Ussery cleverly positioned the plane over a lake on her property, securing the tail with concrete. She then gutted the interior, transforming the 1,500 square feet into a cozy home.
The plane’s 76 windows and 138-foot length presented unique challenges, but Ussery’s creativity shone through. She installed new flooring, updated insulation, and repurposed the original overhead bins for storage. The aircraft’s single bathroom and compact kitchen were cleverly designed to maximize space.
Ussery’s pièce de résistance was the cockpit, transformed into a master bathroom with a soaking tub and stunning lake views. She designed the room to feel like floating on water.
What’s remarkable is that Ussery completed the renovation solo, living in her plane-turned-paradise from 1995 to 1999. Although the plane was destroyed during transport in 1999, Ussery’s legacy lives on through these breathtaking photos. Her story inspires us to think outside the box and turn our dreams into reality.
