President of the United States Joe Biden selected the livery design for the “Next Air Force One,” VC-25B, a design that will closely resemble the livery of the current Air Force One, VC-25A, while also modernizing for the 21st century. (Courtesy rendering)
Mission
The mission of the VC-25A aircraft—better known as Air Force One—is to provide safe, secure, and efficient air transportation for the President of the United States. This iconic aircraft ensures the President can travel seamlessly across the country and internationally while remaining fully capable of executing the responsibilities of the office.
Features
The presidential air transport fleet consists of two specially configured Boeing 747-200B aircraft, bearing tail numbers 28000 and 29000, with the Air Force designation VC-25A. These aircraft are uniquely equipped to serve the needs of the President. Whenever the President is aboard either aircraft—or any Air Force aircraft—the radio call sign becomes "Air Force One."
Key features distinguishing the VC-25A from a standard Boeing 747 include:
- State-of-the-Art Communications Systems: Advanced electronic and communications equipment enable secure, uninterrupted contact with both civilian and military leadership worldwide.
- Interior Design and Amenities: The VC-25A's interior is configured to include:
- An executive suite with a stateroom, dressing room, lavatory, and shower.
- A fully functional office for the President.
- A conference/dining room for official meetings and meals.
- Separate accommodations for senior staff, guests, Secret Service personnel, and members of the media.
- Operational Versatility: The aircraft is equipped with:
- A self-contained baggage loader.
- Front and aft air-stairs to facilitate access in remote locations.
- The capability for in-flight refueling, extending its range indefinitely.
- Medical Readiness: A medical suite onboard includes equipment and supplies for minor emergencies, ensuring the President’s safety during travel.
- Catering Capacity: Two galleys onboard can prepare up to 100 meals at one time, serving both passengers and crew.
Background
Presidential air transport dates back to 1944, when a C-54 Skymaster—nicknamed the "Sacred Cow"—was first designated for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Subsequent presidents flew on:
- The Independence (a DC-6 Liftmaster) for President Harry S. Truman (1947–1953).
- The Columbine II and Columbine III (Lockheed Constellations) for President Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1961).
The term "Air Force One" originated in 1953, after a near collision between President Eisenhower's aircraft (call sign "Air Force 8610") and a commercial Eastern Airlines flight also identified as "8610." To prevent confusion, the unique call sign "Air Force One" was adopted whenever the President was onboard an Air Force aircraft. It became widely recognized during John F. Kennedy's presidency in 1961, when the call sign identified Kennedy’s C-118 aircraft during travel.
In 1962, the first jet designed specifically for presidential use, a Boeing C-137C (tail number 26000), entered service. This aircraft played a historic role, transporting President John F. Kennedy to Dallas on November 22, 1963, and returning his body to Washington, D.C., after his assassination. Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as the 36th President onboard this same aircraft. Over the years, 26000 was also used for other notable events, including President Richard Nixon’s visits to China and the USSR in 1972.
The current VC-25A fleet began service in 1990. Tail number 28000 made its debut as Air Force One on September 6, 1990, transporting President George H. W. Bush. Tail number 29000 followed, serving President Bill Clinton and other dignitaries, such as former Presidents Carter and Bush, during their journey to Israel for Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin's funeral.
General Characteristics of the VC-25A
- Primary Function: Presidential air transport
- Manufacturer: Boeing Airplane Co.
- Powerplant: Four General Electric CF6-80C2B1 jet engines
- Thrust: 56,700 pounds per engine
- Length: 231 feet, 10 inches (70.7 meters)
- Height: 63 feet, 5 inches (19.3 meters)
- Wingspan: 195 feet, 8 inches (59.6 meters)
- Speed: 630 miles per hour (Mach 0.92)
- Maximum Ceiling: 45,100 feet (13,746 meters)
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 833,000 pounds (374,850 kilograms)
- Range: 7,800 statute miles (6,800 nautical miles) (12,550 kilometers)
- Crew: 26, with a passenger/crew capacity of 102
Introduction and Deployment:
- Tail Number 28000: Introduced December 8, 1990; deployed September 6, 1990.
- Tail Number 29000: Introduced December 23, 1990; deployed March 26, 1991.
Significance and Legacy
Air Force One is more than just a mode of transportation. It represents a mobile command center, capable of sustaining presidential leadership during crises. Whether facilitating diplomacy or ensuring security, the VC-25A fleet continues a tradition of excellence, adapting to the demands of modern governance. Its enduring legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of secure, efficient, and effective leadership in air travel for the Commander-in-Chief.
For further historical context:
- Presidential air transport began with Roosevelt’s "Sacred Cow," symbolizing the transition of the presidency into the modern era.
- The C-137C tail number 26000 became an enduring symbol of presidential history, from the tragedy of Kennedy’s assassination to Nixon’s diplomatic breakthroughs.
- The VC-25A ensures the United States' ability to project power and maintain governance globally, carrying forward a legacy of resilience and adaptability.
These aircraft, maintained by the Presidential Maintenance Branch and operated by the 89th Airlift Wing at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., are a testament to technological innovation and presidential necessity.
Latest Developments: The Trump 2020 Design for Air Force One
In 2018, former President Donald J. Trump announced plans to redesign Air Force One’s exterior to reflect a more "patriotic" color scheme. This design replaced the classic light blue and white color scheme, introduced during President John F. Kennedy’s administration, with a bold red, white, and blue motif. The updated livery includes a navy-blue underbelly, white fuselage, and red streaks accentuating the design. This new look is reminiscent of the American flag and emphasizes strength and national pride.
The redesign was part of the contract awarded to Boeing for the next generation of presidential aircraft, designated VC-25B, which will replace the aging VC-25A fleet. These updated planes are based on the Boeing 747-8i platform, a larger and more fuel-efficient version of the 747-200B currently in service. While the current VC-25A aircraft were introduced in 1990, the VC-25B fleet is expected to enter service by 2026, ensuring the continuity of presidential air transport for decades to come.
Key Features of the VC-25B (Next Generation Air Force One):
Upgraded Performance:
- Powered by four General Electric GEnx engines, offering greater fuel efficiency and longer range than the VC-25A.
- Range estimated at over 8,000 nautical miles, allowing for fewer refueling stops during international travel.
Advanced Communications Suite:
- The VC-25B will feature the latest secure communications systems, enabling real-time contact with military and civilian leaders anywhere in the world.
- Enhanced cybersecurity measures will protect sensitive data and communications from external threats.
Enhanced Defensive Capabilities:
- The aircraft will include sophisticated missile defense systems, radar jamming technology, and infrared countermeasures to ensure the President's safety.
Increased Space and Amenities:
- The 747-8i offers a longer fuselage, providing more space for the President, staff, security personnel, and press.
- Updated medical suites, sleeping quarters, and office spaces ensure the President can continue to govern during emergencies or extended travel.
Environmental Improvements:
- The newer aircraft's fuel efficiency and reduced emissions align with modern aviation standards.
The Trump-era design sparked debate among aviation historians and the public. Some viewed the redesign as a bold modernization of the iconic Air Force One, while others expressed nostalgia for the Kennedy-era light blue and white scheme, which has become synonymous with the presidency. Regardless of opinions on aesthetics, the VC-25B represents a significant upgrade in terms of technology, security, and functionality.
Transition Timeline
- 2018: President Trump announces plans for the redesign.
- 2019: Contract awarded to Boeing to modify two 747-8i aircraft for presidential use.
- 2024: Projected testing of the first VC-25B aircraft.
- 2026: Expected deployment of the new Air Force One fleet.
Latest Developments: The Trump 2020 Design for Air Force One
In 2018, former President Donald J. Trump announced plans to redesign Air Force One’s exterior to reflect a more "patriotic" color scheme. This design replaced the classic light blue and white color scheme, introduced during President John F. Kennedy’s administration, with a bold red, white, and blue motif. The updated livery includes a navy-blue underbelly, white fuselage, and red streaks accentuating the design. This new look is reminiscent of the American flag and emphasizes strength and national pride.
The redesign was part of the contract awarded to Boeing for the next generation of presidential aircraft, designated VC-25B, which will replace the aging VC-25A fleet. These updated planes are based on the Boeing 747-8i platform, a larger and more fuel-efficient version of the 747-200B currently in service. While the current VC-25A aircraft were introduced in 1990, the VC-25B fleet is expected to enter service by 2026, ensuring the continuity of presidential air transport for decades to come.
Key Features of the VC-25B (Next Generation Air Force One):
Upgraded Performance:
- Powered by four General Electric GEnx engines, offering greater fuel efficiency and longer range than the VC-25A.
- Range estimated at over 8,000 nautical miles, allowing for fewer refueling stops during international travel.
Advanced Communications Suite:
- The VC-25B will feature the latest secure communications systems, enabling real-time contact with military and civilian leaders anywhere in the world.
- Enhanced cybersecurity measures will protect sensitive data and communications from external threats.
Enhanced Defensive Capabilities:
- The aircraft will include sophisticated missile defense systems, radar jamming technology, and infrared countermeasures to ensure the President's safety.
Increased Space and Amenities:
- The 747-8i offers a longer fuselage, providing more space for the President, staff, security personnel, and press.
- Updated medical suites, sleeping quarters, and office spaces ensure the President can continue to govern during emergencies or extended travel.
Environmental Improvements:
- The newer aircraft's fuel efficiency and reduced emissions align with modern aviation standards.
The Trump-era design sparked debate among aviation historians and the public. Some viewed the redesign as a bold modernization of the iconic Air Force One, while others expressed nostalgia for the Kennedy-era light blue and white scheme, which has become synonymous with the presidency. Regardless of opinions on aesthetics, the VC-25B represents a significant upgrade in terms of technology, security, and functionality.
Transition Timeline
- 2018: President Trump announces plans for the redesign.
- 2019: Contract awarded to Boeing to modify two 747-8i aircraft for presidential use.
- 2024: Projected testing of the first VC-25B aircraft.
- 2026: Expected deployment of the new Air Force One fleet.
Conclusion
While the current VC-25A fleet continues to serve as a symbol of American leadership and resilience, the VC-25B aircraft will usher in a new era of presidential air travel. The Trump-inspired design ensures that Air Force One remains both a practical tool for governance and an enduring symbol of national pride, combining advanced technology with a striking visual identity. These updates solidify the aircraft’s role as a key element of presidential functionality and representation.
Welcome to the Flying White House
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| SAM 28000, one of the two VC-25s used as Air Force One, flying over Mount Rushmore in February 2003. Mt. Rushmore was sculpted by Gutzon Borglum. The sculpture depicts the heads of former United States presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. It is 1,745 feet (532 m) above sea level. The entire memorial is 1,278.45 acres (5.17 km2). Each head is 60 feet (18 m) tall. -- U.S. Air Force File Photo |
Air Force One
Whitehouse.gov Bush Administration rewrite
Overview of Air Force One and Marine One
The term Air Force One is not tied to a specific aircraft but serves as the radio call sign for any U.S. Air Force plane carrying the President of the United States. The presidential fleet currently includes two customized Boeing 747-200Bs, designated VC-25A with tail codes "28000" and "29000," introduced in 1990. These aircraft are tailored to the President’s safety and comfort and are equipped with advanced communication systems, including secure voice terminals and cryptographic devices, enabling classified communications.
Each aircraft features over 238 miles of wiring, double the amount in standard 747s, and offers 4,000 square feet of interior space. This includes a presidential suite with a bedroom and shower, a conference/dining room, two fully equipped kitchens, an office, a medical treatment room, and accommodations for staff, including 84 telephones.
Air Force One has become a globally recognized symbol of the American presidency and power, often regarded as one of the most photographed aircraft worldwide. The first presidential plane, a Boeing 314 Clipper, was introduced under Franklin D. Roosevelt, while the first jet, a Boeing 707, was retired to the Smithsonian in 1972. Modern presidents, including George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush, have used Boeing 747s for presidential travel.
Marine One refers to the radio call sign for any U.S. Marine Corps helicopter carrying the President. Dwight D. Eisenhower was the first president to use helicopter transportation in 1957, flying from Newport, Rhode Island, to Naval Air Station Quonset Point. Today, Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1) provides helicopter travel for the President, Vice President, Cabinet members, and foreign dignitaries, including during overseas trips.
The primary presidential helicopter is the Sikorsky VH-3D, designed for presidential use, with a cruising speed of 110 knots (131 mph) and a range of 450 nautical miles. Each helicopter is meticulously inspected before departure, and the Presidential Seal is affixed to its side. Marine One has traveled globally, landing at iconic locations such as Windsor Castle in England, Akasaka Palace in Tokyo, and the Demilitarized Zone in South Korea.
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| A Pan American World Airways Boeing 314 Clipper |
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| A C-87A VIP transport aircraft |
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| President Roosevelt's C-54 Skymaster aircraft, nicknamed "the Sacred Cow". |
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| The VC-118 Independence used primarily by President Truman |
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The U.S. Air Force Lockheed VC-121E Super Constellation (53-7885, c/n 4151) at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. The aircraft had been ordered by the U.S. Navy as the R7V-1 BuNo 131650 and was diverted during construction to conversion as a presidential aircraft. It was operated throughout the Eisenhower administration as "Colombine III" and replaced in October 1962 by a Boeing VC-137C. The aircraft is today on display at National Museum of the USAF. |
Boeing 707s as Air Force One -
The first plane was purchased by the John F. Kennedy administration, October 1962, was a C-137 Stratoliner, a modified long-range 707, called a Special Air Mission (SAM) 26000. Previously, he had used the Eisenhower-era jets for trips to Canada, France, Austria and the United Kingdom.
The Boeing 707 SAM 26000 served Presidents Kennedy to Clinton, and was the primary transport from Kennedy to Nixon. It is now at the National Museum of the US Air Force.707 Specifications
First flight: Jan. 11, 1959
Model number: 707-320
Classification: Commercial transport
Span: 142 feet 5 inches
Length: 152 feet 11 inches
Gross weight: 316,000 pounds
Cruising speed: 600 mph
Range: 6,000 miles
Ceiling: 41,000 feet
Power: Four 18,000-pound-thrust P&W JT3D turbofan engines
Accommodation: Up to 189 passengers
This long-range version of the Boeing 707-320 intercontinental became the most commonly ordered version of the 707 airliner. Its fuselage was 8 feet longer than the 707-120 and its wingspan was 12 feet longer.
With new turbofan jet engines, the B versions had a range of 6,000 miles, and in 1962, a 707-320B took over the role of U.S. government VIP and presidential transport, designated VC-137C. A second VC-137C was delivered in 1972. These were the first Air Force Ones.
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| American industrial designer Raymond Loewy |
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Boeing 707 SAM 27000 served Presidents Nixon to George H. W. Bush, and was the primary transport for Nixon to Reagan. |
Shift to Boeing 747s
Although Ronald Reagan’s presidency did not bring significant changes to Air Force One, it marked the beginning of the transition to the current Boeing 747s. During his administration, Reagan ordered two identical 747s to replace the aging 707 he used for travel. First Lady Nancy Reagan contributed to the project by designing interiors inspired by the American Southwest. The first of these aircraft was delivered in 1990, during George H. W. Bush’s presidency, after delays caused by the need for enhanced protection against electromagnetic pulse (EMP) effects. The VC-25 aircraft is equipped with both secure and standard communication systems, allowing the president to fulfill critical duties midair, even during a national emergency.
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| President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush walk on the tarmac as Air Force One sits at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, 1 March 2006. |
Dramatic Episodes Aboard Air Force One
The September 11 Attacks and Air Force One's Role
One of the most dramatic episodes in Air Force One's history occurred on September 11, 2001, during the terrorist attacks on the United States. President George W. Bush was in Sarasota, Florida, visiting Emma E. Booker Elementary School when news reached him of the second attack on the World Trade Center's South Tower. Upon learning of the unfolding crisis, President Bush left the school and boarded a VC-25A at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.
For security reasons, Air Force One first flew to Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, where President Bush recorded a statement condemning the attacks. The aircraft then proceeded to Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, where the President convened a meeting with his national security team via secure communications. After receiving updates on the situation and consulting with his advisors, President Bush returned to Washington, D.C., later that evening aboard Air Force One.
The next day, officials from the White House and the Justice Department stated that these stops were made due to "specific and credible information" that both the White House and Air Force One were intended targets of the attacks. However, subsequent investigation revealed that this claim stemmed from a miscommunication, and no concrete evidence of such a threat was ever confirmed. Despite the lack of verified threats, the decisions made that day underscored the importance of Air Force One as a secure and mobile command center during national crises.
Syrian Fighter Jet Interception in 1974
Air Force One typically flies without an escort of fighter jets when operating over U.S. airspace. However, there have been exceptions during foreign trips or extraordinary circumstances. A notable incident occurred in June 1974 when President Richard Nixon was en route to a scheduled stop in Syria. Without prior notice, Syrian fighter jets intercepted Air Force One to act as escorts as it entered Syrian airspace.
Unaware of the escort arrangement, the Air Force One crew mistook the Syrian jets for a potential threat and responded by taking evasive action, including executing a dive to avoid the perceived danger. The situation was eventually clarified, and the flight continued safely, but the incident highlighted the potential risks and misunderstandings that can arise during international travel, even with allied or neutral nations.
These events underscore Air Force One's critical role in ensuring the safety and functionality of the President, particularly during times of crisis or diplomatic missions. The secure communications, advanced defensive systems, and experienced crew aboard the VC-25A ensure that the President can continue to govern and respond to emergencies, no matter where the aircraft is located.
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| President Barack Obama meets with staff mid-flight aboard Air Force One, in the conference room, 3 April 2009. |
Today, the President Obama still flies aboard a specially configured 747-200B, the newest and largest presidential airplane. Its capabilities include:
- Longer range for presidential travel
- Aerial refueling
- Self-sufficiency at airports around the world
The "flying Oval Office" has 4,000 square feet of interior floor space. Among its accommodations are:
- Conference/dining room
- Quarters for the president and the first lady
- An office area for senior staff members
- Another office that converts into a medical facility when necessary
- Work and rest areas for the presidential staff, media representatives and Air Force crews
- Two galleys that can provide 100 meals at one sitting
- Multi-frequency radios for air-to-air, air-to-ground and satellite communications
- Principal differences between Air Force One and the standard Boeing 747 include state-of-the-art navigation, electronic and communications equipment; its interior configuration and furnishings; self-contained baggage loader; and front and aft air-stairs.
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The Boeing Dreamlifter is a modified 747-400 passenger airplane that can haul more cargo by volume than any airplane in the world. It is the primary means of transporting major assemblies of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner from suppliers around the world to the 787 final assembly site in Everett, Wash. This reduces delivery times to as little as one day from as many as 30 days today.
Range:
Dependent on payload but comparable to other members of the 747 family of aircraft.
Wing Span:
211.5 feet (64.44 meters)
Length:
235 feet, 2 inches (71.68 meters)
Height (fin tip):
70 feet, 8 inches (21.54 meters)
Swing Tail Cargo Door:
Hinge on aft section of the fuselage
Cruise Speed:
Mach 0.82
Cargo Capacity:
65,000 cubic feet
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
803,000 lbs
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As of November 20, 2024, Boeing's 787 Dreamliner program faces significant challenges. The aircraft is grounded due to multiple electrical system flaws, extending beyond the previously reported battery issues. Engineers attribute these problems to the 787's outsourced supply chain, citing substandard components from subcontractors operating with limited oversight. This situation has also led to the suspension of plans to develop a 787 variant for Air Force One.
In response to these issues, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has initiated an investigation into Boeing's inspection processes. Reports indicate that essential inspections on 787 Dreamliners may have been bypassed, with records potentially falsified. These inspections are crucial for ensuring proper bonding and grounding to mitigate electrical risks near fuel tanks. Boeing has acknowledged the oversight and is reassessing all 787s in production, as well as managing plans for those already in service.
Additionally, Boeing's plans to develop a 787 variant for Air Force One have been halted. The company is currently focused on converting two Boeing 747-8 aircraft to serve as the next Air Force One, a project that has experienced delays and cost overruns. The first test flight of the inaugural plane has been postponed to March 2026, three years behind schedule, with no new delivery dates set.
These developments have raised concerns about Boeing's quality control and oversight practices, prompting increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities and stakeholders.
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