Dad turns 1970s private jet into holiday home – complete with original cockpit

Tamir Ali, 38, acquired half of a 1970s Hawker jet in December 2023, from an acquittance who deals with “unique features” and has since turned it into a holiday home

Aviation buffs can now holiday in a 1970s private jet, complete with its original cockpit, after a dedicated dad splashed out £90k to convert it into a quirky tiny home.

Tamir Ali, 38, got his hands on half of a vintage 1970s Hawker jet in December 2023, thanks to an acquaintance who specialises in “unique features”. The aircraft was once the go-to for an oil company’s staff transport during the 70s and 80s until it was retired from service.

For easier transportation, the plane was severed in two and stripped of its wings. The father of four devoted seven months and close to £90k to revamp the jet into a one-of-a-kind rental property in Dolgellau, Gwynedd, Wales.

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This extraordinary abode boasts two bedrooms – perfect for two adults and two kids – alongside a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom with a shower, and an outdoor seating area. The pet-friendly pad has only been listed on Airbnb for a mere three weeks, yet it’s already boasting a 70 per cent occupancy rate.

Leicester-based Tamir, who has a passion for restoring classic cars, exclaimed: “It’s awesome – when people walk in they say it’s much bigger than it seems on the outside. It’s almost like you’re in a normal home. It’s a unique experience, not many people get to sit in the cockpit of a 70’s private jet.”

When Tamir first snapped up the plane for an undisclosed sum in December 2023, it was admittedly “a bit worse for wear”. Undeterred, Tamir dedicated seven months to transforming the aircraft into an eccentric vacation spot.

The transformation of a rundown airplane into a quirky holiday home in Dolgellau, Wales, has been completed with the inclusion of wooden floors, rewiring efforts, and the fitting of a bespoke door. The mastermind behind the project, Tamir, managed to find a spot for the aircraft where he added a 16ft by 9ft cabin featuring a double bed, kitchen, and bathroom to create a comfortable living space.

Tamir shared: “I’ve always worked with eccentric people – people who deal with the weird and wonderful. I know a chap in Essex, who said he had something that was up my street.”

When he first saw the plane it was not in its best state. It had its nose cone hanging off and no door. Despite this, Tamir saw potential. He said: “There was lots of mould and moss inside – but I immediately envisioned what I wanted it to be.”

Named “Alaya Airways” after his youngest daughter Alaya, aged five, the property brings a distinct glamping experience to the table. With its classification as a glamping pod, Alaya Airways can be booked for an adventurous stay at £170 per night.

Sharing the excitement about the venture, Tamir remarked, “It’s a very very cool experience. The feedback so far has been good, people seem to love it.”

For those intrigued by the concept, the property listing is available to explore online.