This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Jon Kotwicki, a 32-year-old flight instructor in Alaska, who turned an old cargo plane into an Airbnb. It has been edited for length and clarity.

Airplanes have the right of way in this North Texas neighborhood. Bourland Field Estates is a community of homes with a special appeal: Homeowners can taxi their airplanes down the street and take off ...