Etihad Airplane From Junkyard Turns Into Fancy Holiday Accommodation

What happens to planes that crash? They are sent to the junk yard, right? Wrong! One man from the UK did things a little differently and the result is something you would have never imagined. An Etihad jet, which once carried passengers to destinations across the globe was sent to the junkyard only to be converted into a luxury holiday accommodation. The Airbus is now a much-loved stay option in UK’s Apple Camping, a glamping site in South Pembrokeshire.

What’s It?

The Airbus A319 began service in 2003, before Etihad bought it in 2008. It was then re-registered as A6-EIE. The aircraft was designed to cover short trips and mainly flew to destinations across the GCC. Etihad then de-commissioned the plane and left in the scrapyard, from where Ground operator Toby Rhys-Davies bought it in May.

Toby Rhys-Davies bought the aircraft for AED 205,000 from a scrapyard in Cardiff, Wales and gave it a new makeover. The £179-a-night holiday home is now part of Apple Campings. Rightly called ‘Arabian Nights’, the quirky stay is perfect for four people and is complete with the latest amenities. When he bought the plane, the cockpit had nothing in it. The plane’s kitchen and two toilets remained intact, however.

What’s In It?

The aircraft was huge and had to be cut into two parts to be craned to Toby’s camp, where it underwent a £700,000 makeover. However, the compartments of the plane created bigger space, allowing space for four people to sleep. Airbus A319 also has hot water facility, a toilet, and an outdoor shelter. One of the two toilets have been converted into a shower while the kitchen that served in-flight meals can easily serve a family of four. Toby also re-modeled the tail-end of the aircraft, making it accessible through two emergency exits.

The aircraft also boasts a barbecue area on the deck. Ever since the launch, the Airbus has hosted 12 families. Airbus A319 is much more than a static caravan.