You Can Stay in a Private Jet Airbnb in Alaska

For most of us, reaching billionaire status is still a couple of zeroes away from reality, as are all the ritzy perks that come with it. Fortunately, there are still ways that we common folk can enjoy an upper-class-style vacation without breaking the bank. As a matter of fact, how does a private jet sound? Even better, how about jet-setting to a vacation rental in the wilds of Alaska?

Better still: why fly in a private jet to one of the most jaw-dropping destinations in the country when you can just spend your entire vacation in one?

Welcome to the DC-6 in Wasilla, Alaska! This incredible 100-foot-long Alaska freight plane-turned-Airbnb is hiding in the trees off a private runway, just waiting to turn all of your wildest aviation dreams into reality. It's spacious, unique, and definitely not just for plane-enthusiasts.

The DC-6 (and its DC-9 counterpart) was originally purchased by a local Alaska flight instructor to house flight students on-site, then hauled from Fairbanks to Wasilla, pieced back together, sealed, and finally repurposed to withstand Alaska's elements as a warm and cozy home-away-from-home in the off-season. This unique plane Airbnb is fully modern, fully functional (no tiny commercial flight bathroom here), and offers one of the most comfortable in-plane sleeps you'll ever get—all without sharing an armrest with a stranger.

One of the best aspects of this Airbnb is the setting. Surrounded by trees but with space to explore, the DC-6 is tucked away in a recreation haven. The property features multiple trails for walking in the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter, plus easy access to snow machine trails, glacier tours, wildlife tours, and even Big Lake for ice fishing and winter adventuring in the heart of the Mat-Su Valley. And, since it's on its own private runway, you won't have to worry about constant through-traffic or unwanted neighbors stopping by. But you will get to watch the occasional bush plane take off, which is pretty cool too.

Inside, this restored 1950s plane is a cozy, fully livable space. You'll find all of the creature comforts you could hope for, with room to sleep six guests in its two full-sized bedrooms, plus a sleeper couch. The thoughtfully designed living room (complete with big screen, massage chair, and comfy furnishings) offers fantastic window views of the great outdoors, too. And yes, there's a coffee bar!

The great Alaskan wilderness may be right outside the jet bridge door, but step into the sleek tiled bathroom and you'll forget any concept of "roughing it" in the wild. Feel free to step inside the cockpit, play with the knobs and dials, and let your imagination run wild.

But what's a cozy abode in the trees without plenty of sunny windows to peep through? Or a deck to enjoy the pine-scented breeze? The DC-6 Airbnb has both. When you're ready to grab a breath of fresh air but not quite ready to layer up and hit the trails, step right out onto the wing-top deck and kick back in a chair to watch the sun rise, or enjoy a lofted, late-night al fresco BBQ while the northern lights twinkle on the horizon. The scenery is gorgeous from here.

This unique plane Airbnb is definitely not a kitschy themed vacation rental. As such, while you enjoy your stay, take some time to appreciate the plane's original details that—on an ordinary flight—you wouldn't get to see or touch. Every door and beam has a different build and purpose, and a few overhead panels have been intentionally left exposed so guests can admire the plane's interior craftsmanship.

If you have kids coming along on your backcountry Airbnb adventure or are looking for a little more space (and luxury) on your stay, be sure to check out the other plane on the property: the DC-9 Plane House. This massive commercial freight plane includes a cargo area "kid cave," as well as a unique sauna feature. It's right across the runway, so a dual booking is always an option as well.

If you want to get to know the space a little better before you book an overnight stay, head to the already wildly popular Airbnb page for more photos of both DC freighter options. Then, pack your bags and prepare for takeoff! (Figuratively, that is.)

While you're here, make some time to enjoy just a few of the many natural wonders that Wasilla and the Mat-Su have to offer, like Matanuska Glacier, the Little Susitna River, and endless hiking trails. Or, check out our AI Travel Planner for even more adventures in the area.