She Turned an Old Airplane into a Home—See the Stunning Interior
Jo Ann Asseri’s life changed dramatically in an instant. In 1993, a devastating disaster struck Benoit, Mississippi, destroying her home and leaving her and her three children without shelter. With their house reduced to ruins, Jo Ann faced an overwhelming challenge—no home, no savings, and no clear path forward. She struggled to keep her family safe and together, hoping for a miracle. Then, tragedy struck again: her husband passed away unexpectedly, leaving her a widowed mother of three, facing emotional and financial hardship alone.
Determined to find a solution, Jo Ann explored options like renting a trailer or buying a mobile home, but the costs were far beyond her reach. As days passed with no answer, an unexpected idea came from her father-in-law Bob, an air traffic controller. He suggested something unconventional: why not turn an old airplane into a home?
At first, the idea seemed far-fetched. But as they discussed it, Jo Ann realized it could be a practical and affordable alternative. She began searching for a decommissioned aircraft that could be converted into living space. After finding a suitable plane, she committed fully to the project. The renovation cost around $30,000—significantly less than buying or renting a traditional home or trailer.
The plane itself was impressive—about 138 feet long with 76 windows, offering plenty of space and natural light. Jo Ann envisioned transforming it into a cozy, functional home for her family.
With hard work and determination, she renovated the aircraft into a welcoming living space tailored to her children’s needs. Inside, she created three bedrooms, a bright living room, a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances, and a laundry room with a washer and dryer. She even installed a working telephone to make the plane feel like a true home.
The plane’s unique curved walls and round windows gave the interior a special charm. Jo Ann made sure to use every inch efficiently, blending comfort with practicality.
Over time, the airplane became more than shelter—it symbolized resilience and creativity. Jo Ann didn’t just rebuild her life; she reimagined it. Her story attracted media attention and inspired many facing housing challenges, proving that unconventional ideas can create safe, loving homes.
Jo Ann’s airplane house stands as a testament to her strength and love for her family. Rather than giving up in the face of disaster, she chose bold innovation. Today, her one-of-a-kind home draws visitors and admirers, reminding everyone that from hardship can come something truly remarkable.
