A young campsite operator in Wales has made headlines by purchasing a decommissioned aircraft seized from a drug trafficking group and transforming it into a luxurious Airbnb accommodation. Jacob McCarthy, a 28-year-old entrepreneur from Wales, who is the owner of the upscale camping site Apple Camping in the seaside town of Tenby in Pembrokeshire, saw an opportunity in revamping the abandoned aircraft.
Upon learning that the vintage 1970s aircraft had been abandoned in North Africa for decades, McCarthy was intrigued by its mysterious history – particularly its path from a criminal drug organization to his possession. Inspired by the trend of repurposing aircraft into homes or Airbnb accommodations flooding Instagram, McCarthy decided to acquire the old Lockheed L-1329 JetStar II and meticulously redesign it into a comfortable and luxurious Airbnb stay.
Describing the unique interior of the aircraft, McCarthy said, “You’ll feel like you’re traveling in the air,” highlighting the original oversized leather seats and sofas adorned with brass and walnut accents, complemented by beautiful cream-colored suede lining.
The aircraft’s tail section now serves as a bar and service area for chilled beverages, alongside an elegant mini bathroom. But that’s not all; McCarthy further revealed, “A few steps forward, you’ll find a hidden door leading to a spacious extension featuring a stunning tropical flower wall, a king-size luxury bed, and a television.”
McCarthy’s team spent several weeks transporting the aircraft from North Africa to Wales, but he preferred not to disclose the exact cost of acquiring the plane. However, he shared that the decision to transform it into an Airbnb accommodation aimed to provide urban dwellers with a serene escape and a unique experience that is typically hard to come by.
Upon the initial inspection of the aircraft, McCarthy discovered that its engines had already been salvaged by scavengers. To comply with transportation regulations, they removed the wings but preserved the rest of the aircraft’s original features. The renovation costs amounted to approximately £50,000 ($65,000).
Positioned within McCarthy’s newly built residence in Wales, the “aircraft Airbnb” enjoys a prime location near a popular seaside resort with golden beaches and blue waters, making it an attractive destination for guests seeking a one-of-a-kind stay.
McCarthy mentioned that they have received numerous summer bookings from various individuals eager to experience the JetStar accommodation, attracted by its captivating background story. The cabin offers three beds accommodating up to four guests, with a nightly rate of £199 ($250).
The successful transformation of the aircraft into a unique Airbnb accommodation reflects McCarthy’s entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to offering guests an unforgettable and extraordinary retreat experience.