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{{short description|US Air Force presidential transport aircraft}}
{{About|the current primary aircraft used as Air Force One|the history of the callsign and the use of aircraft|Air Force One}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2023}}
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout, and guidelines. -->
{|{{Infobox aircraft begin
{{Infobox aircraft
|name= VC-25
|name= VC-25
|image= File:Air Force One over Mt. Rushmore.jpg
|image= Air Force One over Mt. Rushmore.jpg
|caption= A VC-25 over [[Mount Rushmore]].
|caption= VC-25A 28000 over [[Mount Rushmore]] in February 2001
|type= Presidential transport
}}{{Infobox aircraft type
|national_origin= United States
|type= Presidential transport
|manufacturer= [[Boeing]]
|manufacturer= [[Boeing]]
|designer=
|designer=
|first flight=May 16, 1987
|first_flight= 16 May 1987 (VC-25A)
|introduced= August 23, 1990
|introduction= 23 August 1990 (VC-25A)
|retired=
|retired=
|status= In service
|status= In service (VC-25A) <br>In development (VC-25B)
|primary user= [[United States Air Force]]
|primary_user= [[United States Air Force]]
|produced= 1986–90
|produced= 1986–1990 (VC-25A)
|number_built= 2 (VC-25A)
|number built= 2
|developed_from= VC-25A: [[Boeing 747-200B]] <br/> VC-25B: [[Boeing 747-8I]]
|unit cost= US$325 million
|variants=
|developed from= [[Boeing 747-200B]]
|variants with their own articles= <!-- [[Boeing E-4]] - Not a variant as it preceded the VC-25.-->
}}
}}
|}


The '''Boeing VC-25''' is the designation of a [[United States Air Force]] passenger transportation aircraft, a military version of the [[Boeing 747]] airliner. The two modified Boeing 747s are designated VC-25A by the USAF.
The '''Boeing VC-25''' is a military version of the [[Boeing 747]] airliner, modified for presidential transport and commonly operated by the [[United States Air Force]] (USAF) as ''[[Air Force One]]'', the call sign of any U.S. Air Force aircraft carrying the president of the United States.


The VC-25 is most famous for its role as ''[[Air Force One]]'', the call sign of any U.S. Air Force aircraft carrying the [[President of the United States]]. The two aircraft currently in U.S. service are highly modified versions of Boeing's 747-200B, with [[United States military aircraft serials|tail numbers]] '''28000''' and '''29000'''. Although the ''Air Force One'' designation technically applies to the aircraft only while the President is aboard, the term is commonly applied to the VC-25s more generally. They often operate in conjunction with ''[[Marine One]]'' helicopters that ferry the President to airports in circumstances where a vehicle [[motorcade]] would be inappropriate.
Only two examples of this aircraft type are in service; they are highly modified Boeing 747-200Bs, designated VC-25A and having [[United States military aircraft serials|tail numbers]] 28000 and 29000. Although technically the ''Air Force One'' designation applies to the aircraft only while the president is on board, the term is commonly used to refer to the VC-25 in general. The two aircraft often operate in conjunction with ''[[Marine One]]'' helicopters, which ferry the president to airports whenever a vehicle motorcade would be inappropriate.

Two new aircraft, based on the [[Boeing 747-8I]] and designated VC-25B, have been ordered by the USAF to replace the aging VC-25As.


==Development==
==Development==
By 1985, the pair of [[Boeing 707#Military|Boeing 707]]-based [[Boeing C-137 Stratoliner|VC-137s]] used as the Presidential aircraft had been in service for 23 and 13 years respectively, and the USAF began searching for an eventual replacement. The [[Request for Proposal]] issued stated that the aircraft to be selected should have at least three engines and an unrefueled range of at least {{convert|6000|mi|km}}. Both Boeing with its [[Boeing 747|747]] and [[McDonnell Douglas]] with the [[McDonnell Douglas DC-10|DC-10]] were in competition to be selected, with the Boeing entry the eventual winner.<ref>Thomas, H. [http://www.heraldnet.com/forum_message/2242t725496g303706i/NEWS02&Profile=1010&SectionCat=BIZ01 "U.S. considers Air Force One from Airbus."] ''heraldnet.com''. Retrieved: June 26, 2009.</ref> The fabrication of the current 747s began during the presidency of [[Ronald Reagan]] (1981–1989). Reagan ordered two identical Boeing 747-200Bs to replace the Boeing 707s that he used for transport.<ref name="747-dod">Williams, Rudi. [http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=26295 "Reagan Makes First, Last Flight in Jet He Ordered."] ''United States Department of Defense'', June 10, 2004. Retrieved: July 28, 2013.</ref>
By 1985, the pair of [[Boeing 707#Military|Boeing 707]]-based [[VC-137]]s used as the presidential aircraft had been in service for 23 and 13 years respectively, and the USAF began searching for an eventual replacement. The [[Request for Proposal]] issued stated that the aircraft to be selected should have at least three engines and an unrefueled range of at least {{convert|6000|mi|km}}. Both Boeing with its [[Boeing 747|747]] and [[McDonnell Douglas]] with the [[DC-10]] were in competition to be selected, with the Boeing entry the eventual winner.<ref>Thomas, H. [http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20090117/NEWS02/701179728 "U.S. considers Air Force One from Airbus."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090406085241/http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20090117/NEWS02/701179728 |date=6 April 2009}} ''heraldnet.com'', 17 January 2009. Retrieved: 26 June 2009.</ref> The fabrication of the current 747s began during the presidency of [[Ronald Reagan]] (1981–1989).


The VC-25s were completed in 1986 and first flew in 1987.<ref name="Jenkins_2000_p55-6">Jenkins 2000, pp. 55–56.</ref> The interior designs were created by [[First Lady of the United States|First Lady]] [[Nancy Reagan]], who used designs reminiscent of the [[American Southwest]].<ref name="747-dod">Williams, Rudi. [http://archive.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=26295 "Reagan Makes First, Last Flight in Jet He Ordered."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160408010510/http://archive.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=26295 |date=8 April 2016}} ''U.S. Department of Defense'', 10 June 2004. Retrieved: 28 July 2013.</ref> Problems with interior wiring for communication systems delayed delivery of the two aircraft until 1990,<ref name="Jenkins_2000_p55-6"/> during the administration of [[George H. W. Bush]].
[[File:Boeing VC-25 Air Force One.ogv|thumb|thumbtime=1|Boeing VC-25 Air Force One video]]
The VC-25s were completed in 1986 and first flew in 1987.<ref name=Jenkins_2000_p55-6>Jenkins 2000, pp. 55–56.</ref> The interior designs were created by [[First Lady of the United States|First Lady]] [[Nancy Reagan]], who used designs reminiscent of the [[American Southwest]].<ref name="747-dod"/> Problems with interior wiring for communication systems delayed delivery of the two aircraft until 1990,<ref name=Jenkins_2000_p55-6/> during the administration of [[George H.W. Bush]].


The VC-25 is not compliant with [[Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast]] (ADS-B) standards; the Air Force is upgrading both airplanes. The Air Force reported that the operating cost for each VC-25A is $210,877 per hour.<ref>Butler, Amy, and Guy Norris, "Foregone Conclusion", Aviation Week and Space Technology, 9 June 2014, pp. 40-41.</ref>
The Air Force reported that the operating cost for each VC-25A in 2014 was $210,877 (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=210877|start_year=2014}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) per hour.<ref>Butler, Amy, and Guy Norris, "Foregone Conclusion", Aviation Week and Space Technology, 9 June 2014, pp. 40-41.</ref>


==Design and configuration==
==Design and configuration==
[[File:Air Force One Office Obama Kucinich.jpg|thumb|President [[Barack Obama]] meets with Rep. [[Dennis Kucinich]], D-Ohio, aboard Air Force One en route to [[Cleveland, Ohio]], March 2010.]]
While the VC-25 has two main decks and a cargo area, like a regular Boeing 747, its 4,000 square feet (370 m²) of floor space has been reconfigured for presidential duties. Its lowest level is mostly cargo space, carrying luggage and the onboard food supply.
[[File:President's private cabin aboard Air Force One.jpg|thumb|The [[First family of the United States|first family]]'s private quarters. The couches can fold out into beds.]]
[[File:Corridor on Air Force One.jpg|thumb|The aircraft's port-side (left) corridor. The two chairs are typically occupied by Secret Service agents.]]


The VC-25 is capable of flying 7,800 miles (12,600&nbsp;km)—roughly one-third the distance around the world—without refueling. The VC-25A can accommodate more than 70 passengers.<ref>{{cite web |title=VC-25 - Air Force One |url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104588/vc-25-air-force-one/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240117133551/https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104588/vc-25-air-force-one/ |archive-date=2024-01-17 |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=Air Force}}</ref> Each VC-25A cost approximately $325 million. While the VC-25 has two main decks and a cargo area, like a regular Boeing 747, its 4,000 square feet (370 m<sup>2</sup>) of floor space has been reconfigured for presidential duties. Its lowest level is mostly cargo space, carrying luggage and the onboard food supply. The main passenger area is on the second floor or main deck.<ref name="af1">Wallace, Chris (host). [https://archive.today/20121209101020/http://www.foxnews.com/video-search/m/21504368/aboard_air_force_one.htm?pageid=23236 "Aboard Air Force One."] ''Fox News'', 24 November 2008. Retrieved: 28 November 2008.</ref> The upper deck contains the [[cockpit]] and the communications center.
The main passenger area is on the second floor or main deck.<ref name="af1"/> There are three entrances on board, two on the lower and one on the main deck. Typically the president boards and deplanes from the front, main deck entrance via an [[airstair]], while journalists and other passengers enter at the rear door of the main deck. Facilities for the press and other passengers are configured like an ordinary airliner's first-class cabin.<ref>Harris, Tom. [http://www.howstuffworks.com/air-force-one.htm "How Air Force One Works."] ''HowStuffWorks.com''. Retrieved: October 10, 2006.</ref>


Typically, the president boards and disembarks from the front, main deck entrance using a [[Ground support equipment#Passenger boarding steps/stairs|mobile stairway]], while journalists and other passengers enter at the rear door of the main deck.<ref>Harris, Tom. [http://www.howstuffworks.com/air-force-one.htm "How Air Force One Works."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100413165521/http://www.howstuffworks.com/air-force-one.htm|date=13 April 2010}} ''HowStuffWorks.com''. Retrieved: 10 October 2006.</ref> However, the aircraft also has built-in [[airstair]]s that lead to the lower deck, typically used when security concerns make the use of a mobile stairway impractical.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Keith |first=Tamara |date=August 31, 2023 |title=Why Biden is now routinely taking the short stairs up to Air Force One |url=https://www.npr.org/2023/08/31/1196803354/biden-air-force-one-short-stairs |access-date=February 19, 2024 |work=[[National Public Radio]]}}</ref>
==="The White House"===
[[File:Air Force One President Office.jpg|thumb|left|President [[George W. Bush]], [[Bill McGurn]], [[Stephen Hadley]] and [[Ed Gillespie]] gather in the president's office aboard Air Force One en route to [[Bahrain]] in January 2008.]]
[[File:Air Force One Office Obama Kucinich.jpg|thumb|right|President [[Barack Obama]] meets with Rep. [[Dennis Kucinich]], D-Ohio, aboard Air Force One en route to [[Cleveland, Ohio]], March 15, 2010.]]
[[File:President's private cabin aboard Air Force One.jpg|thumb|left|The President and First Lady's private quarters. The couches can fold out into beds.]]
[[File:President's Conference Room aboard Air Force One.jpg|thumb|right|The conference room.]]
[[File:Corridor on Air Force One.jpg|thumb|left|The corridor that runs down the port (left) side of the aircraft. Secret Service agents are stationed in the two chairs.]]


===The "White House"===
The front of the aircraft is referred to as the "White House" of the aircraft.<ref name="af1"/> The president's executive suite includes sleeping quarters with two couches that can be converted into beds, [[Aircraft lavatory|lavatory]] and shower, vanity, double sink, and a private office, or the president's "Oval Office aboard Air Force One". If necessary, the president can address the nation from the office. This capability was added after the [[September 11 attacks]], during which the aircraft had to land at [[Barksdale Air Force Base]] in order for President [[George W. Bush]] to address the nation.<ref name="obaf1">Stebner, Greg (narrator). [http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/on-board/3652/Overview "On Board Air Force One."] ''[[National Geographic Channel]]'', January 25, 2009. Retrieved: June 26, 2009.</ref> These offices, including the president's suite, are mostly located on the [[starboard]] (right) side, and a long corridor runs along the [[Port (nautical)|port]] (left) side. There is an area along the corridor for two [[United States Secret Service|Secret Service]] agents.{{citation needed|date=March 2011}} The aircraft also contains a conference room, originally designed as a situation room but now used for meeting with staff while traveling. This room includes a 50-inch [[plasma screen]] television which can be used for teleconferencing. The aircraft has fully equipped office areas with telecommunication systems (including 87 telephones and 19 televisions).<ref name="af1"/>
The front section of the aircraft is informally called the "White House", a reference to the [[White House|president's official residence]] in Washington, D.C.<ref name="af1"/> The president's executive suite includes sleeping quarters with two couches that can be converted into beds, lavatory and shower, vanity, double sink, and a private office, or the president's "Oval Office aboard Air Force One". If necessary, the president can address the nation from the office. This capability was added after the [[September 11 attacks]], during which the aircraft had to land at [[Barksdale Air Force Base]] for President [[George W. Bush]] to address the nation.<ref name="obaf1">Stebner, Greg (narrator). [http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/on-board/3652/Overview "On Board Air Force One."] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090203075650/http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/on-board/3652/Overview |date=3 February 2009}} ''[[National Geographic Channel]]'', 25 January 2009. Retrieved: 26 June 2009.</ref> These offices, including the president's suite, are mostly located on the [[starboard]] (right) side, and a long corridor runs along the [[Port (nautical)|port]] (left) side. The aircraft also contains a conference room, originally designed as a [[situation room]], but now used for meeting with staff while traveling. This room includes a 50-inch [[plasma screen]] television which can be used for teleconferencing. The aircraft has fully equipped office areas with telecommunication systems (including 87 telephones and 19 televisions).<ref name="af1"/>


On board the VC-25 is a medical annex, which includes a fold-out operating table, emergency medical supplies, and a well-stocked [[pharmacy]]; George W. Bush had a [[treadmill]] added to Air Force One during his term in office. Every flight is staffed by a [[Physician|doctor]] and nurse. The aircraft is self-sufficient, such as carrying all the food it will need. Meals are prepared in two [[galley (kitchen)|galleys]], which together are equipped to feed up to 100 people at a time.<ref name="af1">Wallace, Chris (host). [http://www.foxnews.com/video-search/m/21504368/aboard_air_force_one.htm?pageid=23236 "Aboard Air Force One."] ''Fox News'', November 24, 2008. Retrieved: November 28, 2008.</ref> The President gets his own menu. An area where guests sit is near the center of the aircraft, outside the "White House".<ref name="af1"/>
On board the VC-25 is a medical annex, which includes a fold-out operating table, emergency medical supplies, and a well-stocked pharmacy. George W. Bush had a [[treadmill]] added to Air Force One during his term in office. Every flight is staffed by a doctor and nurse. The aircraft is self-sufficient, such as carrying all the food it will need. Meals are prepared in two [[galley (kitchen)|galleys]], which together are equipped to feed up to 100 people at a time.<ref name="af1">Wallace, Chris (host). [https://archive.today/20121209101020/http://www.foxnews.com/video-search/m/21504368/aboard_air_force_one.htm?pageid=23236 "Aboard Air Force One."] ''Fox News'', 24 November 2008. Retrieved: 28 November 2008.</ref> The president gets a personal menu. An area where guests sit is near the center of the aircraft, outside the "White House".<ref name="af1"/>


There are separate quarters for guests, senior staff, Secret Service and security personnel, and the news media located in the [[aft]] area of the main deck. Protocol states that one may wander aft of wherever one's assigned seat is, but not forward.<ref name="af1"/> Communications equipment and the [[Cockpit (aviation)|cockpit]] are on the upper deck. There are also secure and non-secure voice, fax and data communications facilities.<ref name="af1"/> While the aircraft's luggage capacity is adequate to carry the belongings of the passengers, the logistics train of the President means that the aircraft must fly preceded by an aerial convoy of several cargo transports, which carry the helicopters, motorcade vehicles, and other equipment required by the presidential entourage.<ref name="af1"/>
There are separate quarters for guests, senior staff, [[United States Secret Service|Secret Service]] and Air Force security personnel assigned to the plane, and the news media located in the [[aft]] area of the main deck. Protocol states that one may wander aft of one's assigned seat, but not forward of it.<ref name="af1"/> Communications equipment and the [[Cockpit (aviation)|cockpit]] are on the upper deck. There are also secure and non-secure voice, fax and data communications facilities.<ref name="af1"/> While the aircraft's luggage capacity is adequate to carry the belongings of the passengers, the logistics train of the president means that the aircraft must fly preceded by an aerial convoy of several cargo transports, which carry the helicopters, motorcade vehicles, and other equipment required by the presidential entourage.<ref name="af1"/>

The VC-25 is capable of flying 7,800 miles (12,600&nbsp;km)—roughly one-third the distance around the world—without refueling. It can be [[Midair refueling|refuelled during flight]] from a tanker aircraft. The VC-25A can accommodate more than 70 passengers. Each VC-25A cost approximately [[United States dollar|US$]]325 million. When a VC-25 taxis to an airport's ramp for events, it stops with the port side of the aircraft facing gathered onlookers.{{citation needed|reason=Entire paragraph is uncited and needs referencing.|date=August 2012}}


==Operational history==
==Operational history==
The VC-25 replaced the [[C-137 Stratoliner|VC-137C]] (a military version of the [[Boeing 707]]) as the mainstay of the ''Air Force One'' fleet. On some occasions, the VC-25s are used to transport the Vice President of the United States, for which service they adopt the callsign ''Air Force Two''. These aircraft are maintained and operated as military operations by the Presidential Airlift Group, part of [[Air Mobility Command]]'s 89th Airlift Wing, based at [[Andrews Air Force Base]] in [[Camp Springs, Maryland|Camp Springs]], [[Maryland]].


===VC-25A===
[[File:VC-25(040616-F-5677R-002).jpg|thumb|right|A VC-25 at [[MacDill Air Force Base]] in [[Florida]] on June 16, 2004]]
The VC-25A replaced the [[VC-137C]] (a military version of the [[Boeing 707]]) as the mainstay of the ''Air Force One'' fleet. On some occasions, the VC-25s serve as transport for the US vice president, for which service they use the ''[[Air Force Two]]'' call sign. The VC-25A aircraft are maintained and operated as military operations by the Presidential Airlift Group, part of [[Air Mobility Command]]'s 89th Airlift Wing, based at [[Andrews Field|Joint Base Andrews]] in [[Camp Springs, Maryland]].
[[File:US Navy 061230-F-0194C-006 The casket of Gerald R. Ford, 38th president of the United States, arrives at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., Dec. 30, 2006.jpg|thumb|right|The casket of President Gerald Ford being lowered from the cabin of ''SAM 29000'' at Andrews Air Force Base, MD, 2006.]]


The aircraft can also be operated as a military command center in the event of an incident such as a [[Nuclear warfare|nuclear attack]]. Operational modifications include [[aerial refueling]] capability and [[Surface-to-air missile|anti-aircraft missile]] countermeasures. The electronics on board are connected with approximately 238 miles (383&nbsp;km) of wiring, twice that of a regular 747. All wiring is covered with heavy shielding for protection from an [[electromagnetic pulse]] in the event of a nuclear attack. The aircraft also has [[electronic countermeasures]] (ECMs) to [[Radar jamming|jam]] enemy [[radar]], [[Flare (countermeasure)|flares]] to avoid heat-seeking missiles, and [[Chaff (radar countermeasure)|chaff]] to avoid radar-guided missiles. All small arms and ammunition stores not under the physical possession of the Secret Service on board the VC-25s are stowed and secured by the Secret Service in separate locked compartments, each with a different locking mechanism for added security. Many of the VC-25's other capabilities are classified for security reasons.
The aircraft can also be operated as a military command center in the event of an incident such as a nuclear attack. Operational modifications include [[aerial refueling]] capability<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/the-grounds/air-force-one/ |title=Air Force One: The President's office in the sky |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220812101901/https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/the-grounds/air-force-one/ |archive-date=12 August 2022 |website=The White House |access-date=12 August 2022}}</ref> and countermeasures against [[Surface-to-air missile|anti-aircraft missiles]]. The electronics on board are connected with approximately 238 miles (383&nbsp;km) of wiring, twice that of a regular 747. All wiring is covered with heavy shielding for protection from a [[nuclear electromagnetic pulse]] in the event of a nuclear attack. The aircraft also has [[electronic countermeasures]] (ECMs) (AN/ALQ-204 Matador) to [[radar jamming|jam]] enemy radar, [[Flare (countermeasure)|flares]] to avoid heat-seeking missiles, and [[chaff (radar countermeasure)|chaff]] to avoid radar-guided missiles.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cenciotti |first=David |date=2018-10-23 |title=These Are The Systems that Protect Air Force One From Heat-Seeking Missiles |url=https://theaviationist.com/2018/10/23/these-are-the-systems-that-protect-air-force-one-from-heat-seeking-missiles/ |access-date=2024-11-15 |website=The Aviationist |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=AN/ALQ-204 Matador Infrared Countermeasure (IRCM) |url=https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/systems/an-alq-204.htm |access-date=2024-11-15 |website=www.globalsecurity.org}}</ref> All small arms and ammunition stores not in the physical possession of the Secret Service and Air Force security personnel on board the VC-25s are stowed and secured in separate locked compartments, each with a different locking mechanism for added security. Many of the VC-25's other capabilities are classified for security reasons.


There has been at least one instance of a VC-25A carrying the president of the United States without using the Air Force One call sign, when President George W. Bush went on a secret flight (with the "Gulf Stream Five" call sign) to meet with [[Iraq War|troops in Iraq]] on [[Thanksgiving (United States)|Thanksgiving]], on 27 November 2003.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2003-11-28 |title=Bush trip to Baghdad kept top-secret |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna3606347 |access-date=2024-11-15 |website=NBC News |language=en}}</ref>
After a presidential inauguration resulting in a change in office, the outgoing president is provided transport on a VC-25 aircraft to his home destination. The aircraft for this flight does not use the Air Force One call sign because it is not carrying the president in office. For both Presidents [[Bill Clinton]] and [[George W. Bush]], the flight was known as ''Special Air Mission 28000'', where the number represents the aircraft's tail number.<ref>Felsenthal, Carol. [http://www.cdobs.com/archive/featured/2577/ "When Bill Clinton Left the White House"]. ''Chicago Daily Observer'', January 22, 2009. Retrieved: June 26, 2009.</ref><ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/20/world/americas/20iht-bush.4.19537115.html "Bush flies to Texas to begin post-presidential life."] ''New York Times'', January 20, 2009. Retrieved: September 9, 2011.</ref>


After a presidential inauguration resulting in a change in office, the outgoing president is provided transport on a VC-25 aircraft to their home destination. The aircraft for this flight does not use the Air Force One call sign because it is not carrying the president in office. For both Presidents [[Bill Clinton]] and George W. Bush, the flight was known as ''Special Air Mission 28000'', where the number represents the aircraft's tail number.<ref>Felsenthal, Carol. [http://www.cdobs.com/archive/featured/2577/ "When Bill Clinton Left the White House"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222174122/http://www.cdobs.com/archive/featured/2577/ |date=22 December 2015}}. ''Chicago Daily Observer'', 22 January 2009. Retrieved: 26 June 2009.</ref><ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/20/world/americas/20iht-bush.4.19537115.html "Bush flies to Texas to begin post-presidential life."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170821214249/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/20/world/americas/20iht-bush.4.19537115.html |date=21 August 2017}} ''The New York Times'', 20 January 2009. Retrieved: 9 September 2011.</ref>
The VC-25A has also been used to transport deceased former presidents. The guest area aft of "the White House" has chairs and tables that can be removed and the casket laid in their place.<ref name="af1"/> The remains of both [[Ronald Reagan]] and [[Gerald Ford]] were transported by SAM 28000 and 29000 respectively to Washington for their state funerals, and then on to their final resting places. Colonel Mark Tillman, pilot for President George W. Bush, said, "We'll take care of the president from basically when he's in office to when he lays [sic] in state."<ref name="af1"/> For the funeral of President [[Ronald Reagan]] in 2004, Tillman said that the crew converted the front of the aircraft to look the way it would have appeared when Reagan was president; President and [[Nancy Reagan]]'s Air Force One jackets were placed on the chairs to "make them feel at home".<ref name="af1"/> A specially designed hydraulic lifter (similar to the type used by airline catering) with the presidential seal affixed to the sides lifts the casket up to the portside aft door to enter the VC-25A. The tradition of placing the caskets inside the passenger cabin dates back to the [[assassination of John F. Kennedy]], when the crew refused to allow the president's body to be placed in the cargo hold,<ref>{{cite news|last=Bernstein|first=Adam|url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/28/AR2006042802049_pf.html|title=Col. James Swindal; Piloted Air Force One After Kennedy's Death
|newspaper=The Washington Post|date=April 29, 2006|accessdate=August 16, 2011}}</ref> and again during the state funeral of [[Lyndon B. Johnson]].<ref>{{cite news|last=Foley|first=Thomas|title=Thousands in Washington Brave Cold to Say Goodbye to Johnson|newspaper=[[The Los Angeles Times]]|date=January 25, 1973|page=A1}}</ref>


[[File:US Navy 061230-F-0194C-006 The casket of Gerald R. Ford, 38th president of the United States, arrives at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., Dec. 30, 2006.jpg|thumb|The casket of President Gerald Ford being lowered from the cabin of ''SAM 29000'' at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, 2006.]]
===Future===
The VC-25As have also been used to transport deceased former presidents, as the guest area aft of "the White House" has chairs and tables that can be removed and the casket laid in their place.<ref name="af1"/> The bodies of Ronald Reagan, [[Gerald Ford]], George H.W. Bush and [[Jimmy Carter]] were transported to Washington for their state funerals, and then on to their final resting places. Colonel Mark Tillman, pilot for President George W. Bush, said, "We'll take care of the president from basically when he's in office to when he lays in state."<ref name="af1"/> For the funeral of President Ronald Reagan in 2004, Tillman said that the crew converted the front of the aircraft to look the way it would have appeared when Reagan was president; President and [[Nancy Reagan]]'s Air Force One jackets were placed on the chairs to "make them feel at home".<ref name="af1"/> A specially designed hydraulic lifter (similar to the type used by airline catering) with the presidential seal affixed to the sides lifts the casket up to the portside aft door to enter the VC-25A. The tradition of placing the caskets in the passenger cabin dates back to the [[assassination of John F. Kennedy]], when the crew did not want the president's body placed in the cargo hold,<ref>{{cite news |last=Bernstein |first=Adam |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/28/AR2006042802049_pf.html |title=Col. James Swindal; Piloted Air Force One After Kennedy's Death |newspaper=The Washington Post |date=29 April 2006 |access-date=16 August 2011 |archive-date=13 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121113042346/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/28/AR2006042802049_pf.html |url-status=live}}</ref> and again during the state funeral of [[Lyndon B. Johnson]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Foley |first=Thomas |title=Thousands in Washington Brave Cold to Say Goodbye to Johnson |newspaper=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=25 January 1973 |page=A1}}</ref>
The current 747-200B aircraft are aging and have become less cost-effective to operate. The USAF Air Mobility Command investigated possible replacements, with early press coverage suggesting that the USAF would consider the [[Boeing 747-8]] and the [[Airbus A380]].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/10/17/218681/exclusive-us-considers-airbus-a380-as-air-force-one-and-potentially-a-c-5-replacement.html |title= US considers Airbus A380 as Air Force One and potentially a C-5 replacement |publisher= Flight Global |date= 17 October 2007}}</ref> On January 7, 2009, Air Force Materiel Command issued a new Sources Sought notice for a replacement aircraft to enter service by 2017 with an additional two aircraft to follow in 2019 and 2021.<ref>[https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=e35e259abc36437e8e7665d42bdac9b2&tab=core&_cview=0 "USAF Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization (PAR) Program."] ''USAF Material Command'', January 7, 2009. Retrieved: January 8, 2009.</ref> On 28 January 2009, [[Airbus Group, Inc.|EADS North America]] confirmed the company would not respond to the US Air Force notice, as assembling only three airplanes in the US would not make financial sense.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/01/28/321709/eads-waves-off-bid-for-air-force-one-replacement.html |title= EADS waves off bid for Air Force One replacement |publisher= ''Flight Global'' |date= January 28, 2009}}</ref> This made Boeing the only aircraft manufacturer interested in supplying the replacement aircraft,<ref>[https://www.fbo.gov/index?tab=ivl&s=opportunity&mode=form&id=e35e259abc36437e8e7665d42bdac9b2 "USAF Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization (PAR) Program, Interested Vendors List."] ''USAF Materiel Command'', January 7, 2009. Retrieved: January 8, 2009.</ref> and was reported to be exploring a [[Boeing 787 Dreamliner|787]] option also.<ref>Butler, Amy. [http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/AF1-012809.xml&headline=Boeing%20Only%20Contender%20for%20New%20Air%20Force%20One "Boeing Only Contender for New Air Force One."] ''Aviation Week'', January 28, 2009. Retrieved January 28, 2009.</ref> On 28 January 2015, the Air Force announced the selection of the Boeing 747-8 to replace the aging VC-25A for presidential transport.<ref>[http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/562748/af-identifies-boeing-747-8-platform-for-next-air-force-one.aspx AF Identifies Boeing 747-8 platform for next Air Force One].</ref><ref>Mehta, Aaron. [http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/support/2015/01/28/boeing-selected-air-force-one/22479071/ "Boeing Tapped for Air Force One Replacement"]. [[Defence News]], 28 January 2015</ref>

The two VC-25As are slated for retirement, the first in 2027, and the second in 2028.{{cn|date=May 2024}}<!-- <ref>[https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2019/04/08/bush-foundation-wants-retiring-air-force-one-for-museum/ Bush Foundation wants retiring Air Force One for museum]</ref> -->

===VC-25B===
[[File:Air Force One VC-25B paint scheme 2023-03-10.JPG|thumb|Illustration of the VC-25B color scheme announced March 2023]]

The VC-25A aircraft are aging and have become less cost-effective to operate. The USAF Air Mobility Command investigated possible replacements, with early press coverage suggesting that the USAF would consider the [[Boeing 747-8]] and the [[Airbus A380]].<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/exclusive-us-considers-airbus-a380-as-air-force-one-218681/ |title= US considers Airbus A380 as Air Force One and potentially a C-5 replacement |publisher= Flight Global |date= 17 October 2007 |access-date= 27 March 2016 |archive-date= 11 April 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160411023154/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/exclusive-us-considers-airbus-a380-as-air-force-one-218681/ |url-status= live}}</ref> On 7 January 2009, [[Air Force Materiel Command]] issued a new [[Sources Sought]] notice for a replacement aircraft to enter service by 2017 with an additional two aircraft to follow in 2019 and 2021.<ref>[https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=e35e259abc36437e8e7665d42bdac9b2&tab=core&_cview=0 "USAF Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization (PAR) Program."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190331192734/https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=e35e259abc36437e8e7665d42bdac9b2&tab=core&_cview=0 |date=31 March 2019}} ''USAF Materiel Command'', 7 January 2009. Retrieved: 8 January 2009.</ref> On 28 January 2009, [[EADS North America]] representing [[EADS]] and its Airbus division confirmed it would not respond to the US Air Force notice, as assembling only three airplanes in the US would not make financial sense.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eads-waves-off-bid-for-air-force-one-replacement-321709/ |title= EADS waves off bid for Air Force One replacement |publisher= Flight Global |date= 28 January 2009 |access-date= 27 March 2016 |archive-date= 19 March 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160319105955/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eads-waves-off-bid-for-air-force-one-replacement-321709/ |url-status= live}}</ref> This made Boeing the only aircraft manufacturer interested in supplying the replacement aircraft,<ref>[https://www.fbo.gov/index?tab=ivl&s=opportunity&mode=form&id=e35e259abc36437e8e7665d42bdac9b2 "USAF Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization (PAR) Program, Interested Vendors List."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717062450/https://www.fbo.gov/index?tab=ivl&s=opportunity&mode=form&id=e35e259abc36437e8e7665d42bdac9b2 |date=17 July 2011}} ''USAF Materiel Command'', 7 January 2009. Retrieved: 8 January 2009.</ref> and was reported to be exploring a [[Boeing 787 Dreamliner|787]] option also.<ref>Butler, Amy. [http://aviationweek.com/awin/boeing-only-contender-new-air-force-one "Boeing Only Contender for New Air Force One."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160214180147/http://aviationweek.com/awin/boeing-only-contender-new-air-force-one |date=14 February 2016}} ''Aviation Week'', 28 January 2009. Retrieved 28 January 2009.</ref> On 28 January 2015, the Air Force announced the selection of the Boeing 747-8 to replace the aging VC-25A for presidential transport.<ref>[http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/562748/af-identifies-boeing-747-8-platform-for-next-air-force-one.aspx AF Identifies Boeing 747-8 platform for next Air Force One] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303175608/http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/562748/af-identifies-boeing-747-8-platform-for-next-air-force-one.aspx |date=3 March 2016}}.</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Mehta |first=Aaron |title=Boeing Tapped for Air Force One Replacement |work=[[Defense News]] |date=28 January 2015 |url=https://www.defensenews.com/training-sim/2015/01/28/boeing-tapped-for-air-force-one-replacement/ |access-date=2024-04-26}}</ref>

On 10 May 2016, the Air Force posted online an amendment to its Air Force One contract authorizing Boeing to begin preliminary design activities. This version of the contract synopsis confirmed that the government will buy two modified 747-8 aircraft. Boeing was awarded a contract in January 2016 to identify cost reduction opportunities in areas including maintenance, aerial refueling and communications.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&tab=core&id=1e3ff4d818b2bf35db5d4c07d92f240a&_cview=0 |title=Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization |date=10 May 2016 |publisher=FedBizOpps |access-date=12 May 2016 |archive-date=2 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181002160903/https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&tab=core&id=1e3ff4d818b2bf35db5d4c07d92f240a&_cview=0 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.airforcetimes.com/story/military/2016/05/11/new-air-force-one-trump-clinton-way/84225802/ |title=A new Air Force One for Trump or Clinton is on the way |date=11 May 2016 |publisher=Air Force Times |access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref> On 15 July 2016, Boeing received another contract for pre-engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) risk-reduction to address "system specification, the environmental control system, the aircraft interior, the electrical and power system and sustainment and maintenance approaches" to reduce development risks and life-cycle costs.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/week-defense-july-21-28-2016 |title=Boeing Wins Second Air Force One Contract |date=21 July 2016 |publisher=Aviation Week |access-date=21 July 2016 |archive-date=9 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609171926/https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/week-defense-july-21-28-2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:N894BA.jpg|thumb|One of the two 747-8I aircraft that will be converted into the VC-25B, seen in July 2015 shortly after construction.]]
On 1 August 2017, ''Defense One'' reported that in an effort to pay less for the replacement program, the USAF entered into a contract to purchase two [[Boeing 747-8|747-8 Intercontinental]] (747-8I) jets from Boeing, which had originally been ordered in 2011 by [[Transaero]], a Russian airline. Before they could be delivered, Transaero filed for bankruptcy and was closed down; the two aircraft were stored at [[Southern California Logistics Airport]] in the [[Mojave Desert]] to prevent corrosion. On 27 February 2018, the White House announced a US$3.9 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=3900000000|start_year=2018}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) agreement with Boeing to modify the two unsold 747-8s to replace the VC-25As. The new aircraft is to be designated VC-25B.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2018/02/27/the-white-house-has-cut-a-deal-with-boeing-for-two-new-air-force-ones-nbc-news.html|title=The White House cuts $3.9 billion deal with Boeing for two new Air Force Ones|first=Amanda Macias|last=Kevin Breuninger|website=[[CNBC]]|date=27 February 2018|access-date=27 February 2018|archive-date=27 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180227202503/https://www.cnbc.com/2018/02/27/the-white-house-has-cut-a-deal-with-boeing-for-two-new-air-force-ones-nbc-news.html|url-status=live}}</ref> These aircraft are to be retrofitted with telecommunications and security equipment to bring them to the required security level for the presidential aircraft.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.defenseone.com/business/2017/08/russian-air-force-one-boeing-trump-747/139872/ |title=Trump Wanted a Cheaper Air Force One. So the USAF Is Buying a Bankrupt Russian Firm's Undelivered 747s |work=Defense One |access-date=2 August 2017 |archive-date=1 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801223605/http://www.defenseone.com/business/2017/08/russian-air-force-one-boeing-trump-747/139872/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2022, Boeing's CEO [[Dave Calhoun]] revealed that he expects the company to have a loss of $660 million on the VC-25B program, after the contract was renegotiated by President Trump.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 April 2022 |title=CEO: Boeing Should Have Rejected Trump's Air Force One Deal |url=https://www.defenseone.com/business/2022/04/ceo-boeing-should-have-rejected-trumps-air-force-one-deal/366186/ |access-date=27 April 2022}}</ref>

In June 2019, President Trump announced his plans to revamp the VC-25's [[livery]] from the traditional white and [[ultramarine]] shades to one of red, white, and blue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allen |first=Mike |date=12 July 2018 |title=Scoop: Trump wants tough new Air Force One paint job |url=https://www.axios.com/donald-trump-new-air-force-one-paint-job-b3ff40b3-f8da-448e-9023-a1ea73067488.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201003234648/https://www.axios.com/donald-trump-new-air-force-one-paint-job-b3ff40b3-f8da-448e-9023-a1ea73067488.html |archive-date=3 October 2020 |access-date=8 October 2020 |website=[[Axios (website)|Axios]] |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 July 2018 |title=Trump to redesign Air Force One |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-44865953 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807192116/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-44865953 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |access-date=8 October 2020 |website=[[BBC News]] |url-status=live }}</ref> This would have been the first deviation from the [[Raymond Loewy]] livery scheme since it was introduced in 1962 on the [[Boeing C-137 Stratoliner#VC-137C|VC-137C]] which was first used as Air Force One during the [[Kennedy administration]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Patton |first=Phil |date=24 February 2009 |title=Air Force One: The Graphic History |url=https://www.aiga.org/air-force-one-the-graphic-history |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200221104316/https://www.aiga.org/air-force-one-the-graphic-history |archive-date=21 February 2020 |access-date=8 October 2020 |website=[[American Institute of Graphic Arts]]}}</ref> The Biden administration abandoned the new design, citing "additional engineering, as well as increased time and cost."<ref name="Restuccia">{{Cite news |last1=Tangel |first1=Andrew |last2=Restuccia |first2=Andrew |date=10 June 2022 |title=Biden Reverses Trump Plan to Paint Air Force One Red, White and Blue |newspaper=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/biden-reverses-trump-plan-to-paint-air-force-one-red-white-and-blue-11654890242 |access-date=15 July 2022 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref name="liebermann1">{{cite news |last1=Liebermann |first1=Oren |title=New color scheme unveiled for Air Force One that discards Trump's design |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/10/politics/air-force-one-color-scheme/index.html |access-date=11 March 2023 |publisher=CNN |date=10 March 2023}}</ref> A modified version of the traditional scheme was announced in March 2023.<ref name="afns 3-23">{{cite news |title=New paint design for 'Next Air Force One' |url=https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3326103/new-paint-design-for-next-air-force-one/ |access-date=11 March 2023 |agency=Air Force News Service |publisher=U.S. Air Force |date=10 March 2023}}</ref><ref name="liebermann1" />

The 747s began undergoing modification work at Boeing's San Antonio facility in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.airforcemag.com/first-new-air-force-one-begins-modification-process/|title = First New Air Force One Begins Modification Process|date = 11 March 2020}}</ref> According to ''The Wall Street Journal'', the development process has been hit by multiple "production mishaps", including the discovery of empty [[tequila]] mini-bottles on one of the aircraft, and the use of jacks that were not rated to support the weight of the aircraft. While the jacking did not result in damage to the planes, "the Pentagon's contractor-management agency formally requested Boeing improve its operations."<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tangel |first=Andrew |date=5 April 2022 |title=Boeing's New Air Force One Hit by Production Mishaps |newspaper=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/boeings-new-air-force-one-hit-by-production-mishaps-11649170748 |access-date=15 July 2022 |issn=0099-9660 }}</ref>

While the initial delivery date was set to 2024, the Pentagon expects the jets to be two to three years late,<ref name="Restuccia" /> with the Air Force projecting delivery of the first VC-25B in 2027, and the other in 2028, as of a 2023 press release.<ref name="afns 3-23" /> Once the new aircraft are delivered, the VC-25As will be retired and placed in museums.<ref>[https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2019/04/08/bush-foundation-wants-retiring-air-force-one-for-museum/ "Bush Foundation wants retiring Air Force One for museum"]. airforcetimes.com </ref>

==Variants==
[[File:Boeing VC-25 Air Force One.ogv|thumb|thumbtime=1|Boeing VC-25 Air Force One video]]

;VC-25A: based on the [[Boeing 747-200B]]
;VC-25B: based on the [[Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental]]


==Operators==
==Operators==
;{{USA}}
;{{USA}}
* [[United States Air Force]]
* United States Air Force
**[[89th Airlift Wing]] Presidential Airlift Group (PAG) - [[Andrews AFB]], [[Maryland]]
** [[89th Airlift Wing]], Presidential Airlift Group (PAG) - [[Andrews AFB]], [[Maryland]]


==Specifications (VC-25A)==
==Specifications (VC-25A)==

{{aircraft specifications
{{Aircraft specs
|plane or copter?=plane
|ref= Boeing BDS<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/defense/air-force-one/index.page "Air Force One Technical Specs."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322221710/http://www.boeing.com/defense/air-force-one/index.page |date=22 March 2016}} ''Boeing Defense, Space and Security''. Retrieved: 26 March 2016.</ref>
|jet or prop?=jet
|prime units?=kts
|ref=Boeing BDS<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/military/af1/af1spec.html "Air Force One Technical Specs."] ''Boeing Defense, Space and Security''. Retrieved: June 26, 2009.</ref>
<!-- General characteristics
|crew=26: 2 pilots, flight engineer, navigator,<ref name=Jenkins_2000_p55-6/> and cabin crew
-->
|crew=26: flight crew (pilot, co-pilot, flight engineer, navigator),<ref name="Jenkins_2000_p55-6"/> cabin crew, communications, maintenance, and security
|capacity=76 passengers
|capacity=76 passengers
|length main=231 ft 10 in
|length ft=231
|length alt=70.6 m
|length in=10
|length note=
|span main=195 ft 8 in
|span alt=59.6 m
|span ft=196
|span in=8
|height main=63 ft 5 in
|span note=
|height alt=19.3 m
|height ft=63
|area main=<!-- ft²-->
|height in=5
|area alt=<!-- m²-->
|height note=
|airfoil=
|wing area sqft=
|empty weight main=<!-- lb-->
|wing area note=
|empty weight alt=<!-- kg-->
|useful load main=<!-- lb-->
|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|airfoil=<!--'''root:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA ]]; '''tip:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA ]]<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1=Lednicer |first1=David |title=The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url=https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website=m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date=16 April 2019}}</ref>-->
|useful load alt=<!-- kg-->
|max takeoff weight main=833,000 lb
|empty weight lb=
|max takeoff weight alt=375,000 kg
|empty weight note=
|gross weight lb=
|more general='''Zero fuel weight:''' 526,500 lb (238,800 kg)
|gross weight note=
|engine (jet)=[[General Electric CF6]]-80C2B1
|max takeoff weight lb=833000
|type of jet=[[turbofan]]s
|max takeoff weight note=
|number of jets=4
|fuel capacity=
|thrust main=56,700 lbf
|more general=
|thrust alt=250 kN
<!-- Powerplant
|max speed main=Mach 0.92
-->
|max speed alt=630 mph, 1,015 km/h
|eng1 number=4
|max speed more=at 35,000 ft altitude
|eng1 name=[[General Electric CF6-80C2B1]]
|cruise speed main= Mach 0.84
|eng1 type=[[turbofan]] engines
|cruise speed alt=575 mph, 925 km/h
|eng1 lbf=56700
|cruise speed more=at 35,000 ft altitude
|eng1 note=
|range main=6,800 nmi
<!-- Performance
|range alt=7,800 mi, 13,000 km
-->
|range more=<!-- unrefueled -->
|max speed kts=547.5
|ceiling main=45,100 ft
|max speed note=at {{cvt|35000|ft|0}}
|ceiling alt=13,700 m
|max speed mach=0.92
|climb rate main=<!-- ft/min-->
|cruise speed kts=500
|climb rate alt=<!-- m/s-->
|cruise speed note= / M0.84 at {{cvt|35000|ft|0}}
|loading main=<!-- lb/ft²-->
|stall speed kts=
|loading alt=<!-- kg/m²-->
|stall speed note=
|thrust/weight=<!-- a unitless ratio -->
|never exceed speed kts=
|never exceed speed note=
|minimum control speed kts=
|minimum control speed note=
|range nmi=6800
|range note=
|combat range nmi=
|combat range note=
|ferry range nmi=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling ft=45100
|ceiling note=
|g limits=<!-- aerobatic -->
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|glide ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|climb rate ftmin=
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|lift to drag=
|wing loading lb/sqft=
|wing loading note=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|thrust/weight=

|more performance=<!--</br>
*'''Take-off run:''' {{cvt||ft|0}}
*'''Take-off distance to {{cvt|50|ft|0}}:''' {{cvt||ft|0}}
*'''Landing run:''' {{cvt||ft|0}}
*'''Landing distance from {{cvt|50|ft|0}}:''' {{cvt||ft|0}}-->

|avionics=
}}
}}


Line 133: Line 184:
-->
-->
{{Main|Aircraft in fiction#Boeing 747}}
{{Main|Aircraft in fiction#Boeing 747}}
The VC-25 "Air Force One" is a prominent symbol of the American presidency and its power; with the [[White House]] and [[Seal of the President of the United States|presidential seal]], it is one of the most familiar presidential symbols. Air Force One has often appeared in [[popular culture]] and [[fiction]], most notably as the setting of the [[1997 in film|1997]] [[action movie]] ''[[Air Force One (film)|Air Force One]]'' where the aircraft had an escape pod and a parachute ramp, unlike the actual Presidential aircraft.<ref>Hardesty 2003, p. 15.</ref>
The VC-25 "Air Force One" is a prominent symbol of the U.S. presidency and its powers; with the [[White House]] and [[Seal of the President of the United States|presidential seal]], it is among the most recognized presidential symbols.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2016/09/were-the-only-plane-in-the-sky-214230/|date=September 2016|quote=Gordon Johndroe: You cannot hide a blue-and-white 747 that says 'United States of America' across the top. You can't move it secretly through the daylight.|work=Politico|title='We're the Only Plane in the Sky'}}</ref> Air Force One has often appeared in popular culture and fiction, including the setting of the [[1997 in film|1997]] [[action movie]] ''[[Air Force One (film)|Air Force One]]'' where the aircraft had an escape pod and a parachute ramp, unlike the actual presidential aircraft.<ref>Hardesty 2003, p. 15.</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
{{Aircontent
{{Portal|United States Air Force}}
{{aircontent
|see also=
|see also=
* [[Air Force One photo op incident]]
* [[Air Force One photo op incident]]
* [[Air Force Two]]
* [[Air Force Two]]
* [[Air transports of heads of state]]
* [[Air transports of heads of state and government]]
|related=
|related=
* [[Boeing 747]]
* [[Boeing 747]]
* [[Boeing E-4|E-4 "Nightwatch"]]
* [[Boeing E-4|Boeing E-4B Nightwatch]]
|similar aircraft=
|similar aircraft=
* [[VC-137C SAM 26000]]
* [[VC-137C SAM 26000]]
Line 150: Line 200:
* [[Boeing C-32]]
* [[Boeing C-32]]
* [[Boeing C-40 Clipper]]
* [[Boeing C-40 Clipper]]
* [[Air transport of the British royal family and government#Airbus Voyager|Airbus A330 MRTT]] ''[[Vespina (aircraft)|Vespina]]''
}}
}}


==References==
==References==
;Notes
;Notes
{{Reflist|2}}
{{Reflist}}


;Bibliography
;Bibliography
{{Refbegin}}
{{Refbegin}}
* [http://www.af.mil/AboutUs/FactSheets/Display/tabid/224/Article/104588/vc-25-air-force-one.aspx1 "Air Force One Fact Sheet."] ''United States Air Force'', (Current as of May 2014).
* [http://www.af.mil/AboutUs/FactSheets/Display/tabid/224/Article/104588/vc-25-air-force-one.aspx1 "VC-25 - Air Force One" Fact Sheet.] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025050932/http://www.af.mil/AboutUs/FactSheets/Display/tabid/224/Article/104588/vc-25-air-force-one.aspx1 |date=25 October 2014}} ''United States Air Force'', 1 July 2003.
* Albertazzie, Ralph and Jerald F. Terhorst. ''Flying White House: The Story of Air Force One''. Book Sales, 1979. ISBN 0-698-10930-9.
* Albertazzie, Ralph and Jerald F. Terhorst. ''Flying White House: The Story of Air Force One''. Book Sales, 1979. {{ISBN|0-698-10930-9}}.
* Braun, David. [http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2003/05/0529_030529_airforceone.html Q&A: U.S. Presidential Jet Air Force One.] ''National Geographic News'', May 29, 2003.
* Braun, David. [http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2003/05/0529_030529_airforceone.html Q&A: U.S. Presidential Jet Air Force One.] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100414011346/http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2003/05/0529_030529_airforceone.html |date=14 April 2010}} ''National Geographic News'', 29 May 2003.
* Dorr, Robert F. ''Air Force One''. St. Paul, Minnesota: Motorbooks International, 2002. ISBN 0-7603-1055-6.
* Dorr, Robert F. ''Air Force One''. St. Paul, Minnesota: Motorbooks International, 2002. {{ISBN|0-7603-1055-6}}.
* Hardesty, Von. ''Air Force One: The Aircraft that Shaped the Modern Presidency''. Chanhassen, Minnesota: Northword Press, 2003. ISBN 1-55971-894-3.
* Hardesty, Von. ''Air Force One: The Aircraft that Shaped the Modern Presidency''. Chanhassen, Minnesota: Northword Press, 2003. {{ISBN|1-55971-894-3}}.
* Harris, Tom. [http://www.howstuffworks.com/air-force-one.htm "How Air Force One Works".] ''HowStuffWorks.com''. Retrieved: October 10, 2006.
* Harris, Tom. [http://www.howstuffworks.com/air-force-one.htm "How Air Force One Works".] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100413165521/http://www.howstuffworks.com/air-force-one.htm |date=13 April 2010}} ''HowStuffWorks.com''. Retrieved: 10 October 2006.
* Jenkins, Dennis R. ''Boeing 747-100/200/300/SP'' (AirlinerTech Series, Vol. 6). North Branch, Minnesota: Specialty Press, 2000. ISBN 1-58007-026-4.
* Jenkins, Dennis R. ''Boeing 747-100/200/300/SP'' (AirlinerTech Series, Vol. 6). North Branch, Minnesota: Specialty Press, 2000. {{ISBN|1-58007-026-4}}.
* [http://www.0x4d.net/files/AF1/ "Technical Order 00-105E-9, Segment 9, Chapter 7."]
* [http://www.0x4d.net/files/AF1/ "Technical Order 00-105E-9, Segment 9, Chapter 7."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722235430/http://www.0x4d.net/files/AF1/ |date=22 July 2011}}
* Walsh, Kenneth T. ''Air Force One: A History of the Presidents and Their Planes''. New York: Hyperion, 2003. ISBN 1-4013-0004-9.
* Walsh, Kenneth T. ''Air Force One: A History of the Presidents and Their Planes''. New York: Hyperion, 2003. {{ISBN|1-4013-0004-9}}.
{{Refend}}
{{Refend}}


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{{PresidentialCallsigns}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Boeing Vc-25}}
[[Category:Boeing 747]]
[[Category:Boeing 747|C-025V, Boeing]]
[[Category:1980s United States special-purpose aircraft]]
[[Category:Transportation of the President of the United States]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1987]]
[[Category:Presidential aircraft]]
[[Category:United States special-purpose aircraft 1990–1999]]
[[Category:Quadjets]]
[[Category:Articles containing video clips]]
[[Category:Articles containing video clips]]
[[Category:Boeing aircraft|VC-25]]
[[Category:Double-deck aircraft]]
[[Category:Presidential aircraft]]
[[Category:Transportation of the president of the United States]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear]]

Latest revision as of 02:36, 10 January 2025

VC-25
VC-25A 28000 over Mount Rushmore in February 2001
General information
TypePresidential transport
National originUnited States
ManufacturerBoeing
StatusIn service (VC-25A)
In development (VC-25B)
Primary userUnited States Air Force
Number built2 (VC-25A)
History
Manufactured1986–1990 (VC-25A)
Introduction date23 August 1990 (VC-25A)
First flight16 May 1987 (VC-25A)
Developed fromVC-25A: Boeing 747-200B
VC-25B: Boeing 747-8I

The Boeing VC-25 is a military version of the Boeing 747 airliner, modified for presidential transport and commonly operated by the United States Air Force (USAF) as Air Force One, the call sign of any U.S. Air Force aircraft carrying the president of the United States.

Only two examples of this aircraft type are in service; they are highly modified Boeing 747-200Bs, designated VC-25A and having tail numbers 28000 and 29000. Although technically the Air Force One designation applies to the aircraft only while the president is on board, the term is commonly used to refer to the VC-25 in general. The two aircraft often operate in conjunction with Marine One helicopters, which ferry the president to airports whenever a vehicle motorcade would be inappropriate.

Two new aircraft, based on the Boeing 747-8I and designated VC-25B, have been ordered by the USAF to replace the aging VC-25As.

Development

[edit]

By 1985, the pair of Boeing 707-based VC-137s used as the presidential aircraft had been in service for 23 and 13 years respectively, and the USAF began searching for an eventual replacement. The Request for Proposal issued stated that the aircraft to be selected should have at least three engines and an unrefueled range of at least 6,000 miles (9,700 km). Both Boeing with its 747 and McDonnell Douglas with the DC-10 were in competition to be selected, with the Boeing entry the eventual winner.[1] The fabrication of the current 747s began during the presidency of Ronald Reagan (1981–1989).

The VC-25s were completed in 1986 and first flew in 1987.[2] The interior designs were created by First Lady Nancy Reagan, who used designs reminiscent of the American Southwest.[3] Problems with interior wiring for communication systems delayed delivery of the two aircraft until 1990,[2] during the administration of George H. W. Bush.

The Air Force reported that the operating cost for each VC-25A in 2014 was $210,877 (~$267,357 in 2023) per hour.[4]

Design and configuration

[edit]
President Barack Obama meets with Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, aboard Air Force One en route to Cleveland, Ohio, March 2010.
The first family's private quarters. The couches can fold out into beds.
The aircraft's port-side (left) corridor. The two chairs are typically occupied by Secret Service agents.

The VC-25 is capable of flying 7,800 miles (12,600 km)—roughly one-third the distance around the world—without refueling. The VC-25A can accommodate more than 70 passengers.[5] Each VC-25A cost approximately $325 million. While the VC-25 has two main decks and a cargo area, like a regular Boeing 747, its 4,000 square feet (370 m2) of floor space has been reconfigured for presidential duties. Its lowest level is mostly cargo space, carrying luggage and the onboard food supply. The main passenger area is on the second floor or main deck.[6] The upper deck contains the cockpit and the communications center.

Typically, the president boards and disembarks from the front, main deck entrance using a mobile stairway, while journalists and other passengers enter at the rear door of the main deck.[7] However, the aircraft also has built-in airstairs that lead to the lower deck, typically used when security concerns make the use of a mobile stairway impractical.[8]

The "White House"

[edit]

The front section of the aircraft is informally called the "White House", a reference to the president's official residence in Washington, D.C.[6] The president's executive suite includes sleeping quarters with two couches that can be converted into beds, lavatory and shower, vanity, double sink, and a private office, or the president's "Oval Office aboard Air Force One". If necessary, the president can address the nation from the office. This capability was added after the September 11 attacks, during which the aircraft had to land at Barksdale Air Force Base for President George W. Bush to address the nation.[9] These offices, including the president's suite, are mostly located on the starboard (right) side, and a long corridor runs along the port (left) side. The aircraft also contains a conference room, originally designed as a situation room, but now used for meeting with staff while traveling. This room includes a 50-inch plasma screen television which can be used for teleconferencing. The aircraft has fully equipped office areas with telecommunication systems (including 87 telephones and 19 televisions).[6]

On board the VC-25 is a medical annex, which includes a fold-out operating table, emergency medical supplies, and a well-stocked pharmacy. George W. Bush had a treadmill added to Air Force One during his term in office. Every flight is staffed by a doctor and nurse. The aircraft is self-sufficient, such as carrying all the food it will need. Meals are prepared in two galleys, which together are equipped to feed up to 100 people at a time.[6] The president gets a personal menu. An area where guests sit is near the center of the aircraft, outside the "White House".[6]

There are separate quarters for guests, senior staff, Secret Service and Air Force security personnel assigned to the plane, and the news media located in the aft area of the main deck. Protocol states that one may wander aft of one's assigned seat, but not forward of it.[6] Communications equipment and the cockpit are on the upper deck. There are also secure and non-secure voice, fax and data communications facilities.[6] While the aircraft's luggage capacity is adequate to carry the belongings of the passengers, the logistics train of the president means that the aircraft must fly preceded by an aerial convoy of several cargo transports, which carry the helicopters, motorcade vehicles, and other equipment required by the presidential entourage.[6]

Operational history

[edit]

VC-25A

[edit]

The VC-25A replaced the VC-137C (a military version of the Boeing 707) as the mainstay of the Air Force One fleet. On some occasions, the VC-25s serve as transport for the US vice president, for which service they use the Air Force Two call sign. The VC-25A aircraft are maintained and operated as military operations by the Presidential Airlift Group, part of Air Mobility Command's 89th Airlift Wing, based at Joint Base Andrews in Camp Springs, Maryland.

The aircraft can also be operated as a military command center in the event of an incident such as a nuclear attack. Operational modifications include aerial refueling capability[10] and countermeasures against anti-aircraft missiles. The electronics on board are connected with approximately 238 miles (383 km) of wiring, twice that of a regular 747. All wiring is covered with heavy shielding for protection from a nuclear electromagnetic pulse in the event of a nuclear attack. The aircraft also has electronic countermeasures (ECMs) (AN/ALQ-204 Matador) to jam enemy radar, flares to avoid heat-seeking missiles, and chaff to avoid radar-guided missiles.[11][12] All small arms and ammunition stores not in the physical possession of the Secret Service and Air Force security personnel on board the VC-25s are stowed and secured in separate locked compartments, each with a different locking mechanism for added security. Many of the VC-25's other capabilities are classified for security reasons.

There has been at least one instance of a VC-25A carrying the president of the United States without using the Air Force One call sign, when President George W. Bush went on a secret flight (with the "Gulf Stream Five" call sign) to meet with troops in Iraq on Thanksgiving, on 27 November 2003.[13]

After a presidential inauguration resulting in a change in office, the outgoing president is provided transport on a VC-25 aircraft to their home destination. The aircraft for this flight does not use the Air Force One call sign because it is not carrying the president in office. For both Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, the flight was known as Special Air Mission 28000, where the number represents the aircraft's tail number.[14][15]

The casket of President Gerald Ford being lowered from the cabin of SAM 29000 at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, 2006.

The VC-25As have also been used to transport deceased former presidents, as the guest area aft of "the White House" has chairs and tables that can be removed and the casket laid in their place.[6] The bodies of Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush and Jimmy Carter were transported to Washington for their state funerals, and then on to their final resting places. Colonel Mark Tillman, pilot for President George W. Bush, said, "We'll take care of the president from basically when he's in office to when he lays in state."[6] For the funeral of President Ronald Reagan in 2004, Tillman said that the crew converted the front of the aircraft to look the way it would have appeared when Reagan was president; President and Nancy Reagan's Air Force One jackets were placed on the chairs to "make them feel at home".[6] A specially designed hydraulic lifter (similar to the type used by airline catering) with the presidential seal affixed to the sides lifts the casket up to the portside aft door to enter the VC-25A. The tradition of placing the caskets in the passenger cabin dates back to the assassination of John F. Kennedy, when the crew did not want the president's body placed in the cargo hold,[16] and again during the state funeral of Lyndon B. Johnson.[17]

The two VC-25As are slated for retirement, the first in 2027, and the second in 2028.[citation needed]

VC-25B

[edit]
Illustration of the VC-25B color scheme announced March 2023

The VC-25A aircraft are aging and have become less cost-effective to operate. The USAF Air Mobility Command investigated possible replacements, with early press coverage suggesting that the USAF would consider the Boeing 747-8 and the Airbus A380.[18] On 7 January 2009, Air Force Materiel Command issued a new Sources Sought notice for a replacement aircraft to enter service by 2017 with an additional two aircraft to follow in 2019 and 2021.[19] On 28 January 2009, EADS North America representing EADS and its Airbus division confirmed it would not respond to the US Air Force notice, as assembling only three airplanes in the US would not make financial sense.[20] This made Boeing the only aircraft manufacturer interested in supplying the replacement aircraft,[21] and was reported to be exploring a 787 option also.[22] On 28 January 2015, the Air Force announced the selection of the Boeing 747-8 to replace the aging VC-25A for presidential transport.[23][24]

On 10 May 2016, the Air Force posted online an amendment to its Air Force One contract authorizing Boeing to begin preliminary design activities. This version of the contract synopsis confirmed that the government will buy two modified 747-8 aircraft. Boeing was awarded a contract in January 2016 to identify cost reduction opportunities in areas including maintenance, aerial refueling and communications.[25][26] On 15 July 2016, Boeing received another contract for pre-engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) risk-reduction to address "system specification, the environmental control system, the aircraft interior, the electrical and power system and sustainment and maintenance approaches" to reduce development risks and life-cycle costs.[27]

One of the two 747-8I aircraft that will be converted into the VC-25B, seen in July 2015 shortly after construction.

On 1 August 2017, Defense One reported that in an effort to pay less for the replacement program, the USAF entered into a contract to purchase two 747-8 Intercontinental (747-8I) jets from Boeing, which had originally been ordered in 2011 by Transaero, a Russian airline. Before they could be delivered, Transaero filed for bankruptcy and was closed down; the two aircraft were stored at Southern California Logistics Airport in the Mojave Desert to prevent corrosion. On 27 February 2018, the White House announced a US$3.9 billion (~$4.66 billion in 2023) agreement with Boeing to modify the two unsold 747-8s to replace the VC-25As. The new aircraft is to be designated VC-25B.[28] These aircraft are to be retrofitted with telecommunications and security equipment to bring them to the required security level for the presidential aircraft.[29] In April 2022, Boeing's CEO Dave Calhoun revealed that he expects the company to have a loss of $660 million on the VC-25B program, after the contract was renegotiated by President Trump.[30]

In June 2019, President Trump announced his plans to revamp the VC-25's livery from the traditional white and ultramarine shades to one of red, white, and blue.[31][32] This would have been the first deviation from the Raymond Loewy livery scheme since it was introduced in 1962 on the VC-137C which was first used as Air Force One during the Kennedy administration.[33] The Biden administration abandoned the new design, citing "additional engineering, as well as increased time and cost."[34][35] A modified version of the traditional scheme was announced in March 2023.[36][35]

The 747s began undergoing modification work at Boeing's San Antonio facility in 2020.[37] According to The Wall Street Journal, the development process has been hit by multiple "production mishaps", including the discovery of empty tequila mini-bottles on one of the aircraft, and the use of jacks that were not rated to support the weight of the aircraft. While the jacking did not result in damage to the planes, "the Pentagon's contractor-management agency formally requested Boeing improve its operations."[38]

While the initial delivery date was set to 2024, the Pentagon expects the jets to be two to three years late,[34] with the Air Force projecting delivery of the first VC-25B in 2027, and the other in 2028, as of a 2023 press release.[36] Once the new aircraft are delivered, the VC-25As will be retired and placed in museums.[39]

Variants

[edit]
Boeing VC-25 Air Force One video
VC-25A
based on the Boeing 747-200B
VC-25B
based on the Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental

Operators

[edit]
 United States

Specifications (VC-25A)

[edit]

Data from Boeing BDS[40]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 26: flight crew (pilot, co-pilot, flight engineer, navigator),[2] cabin crew, communications, maintenance, and security
  • Capacity: 76 passengers
  • Length: 231 ft 10 in (70.66 m)
  • Wingspan: 196 ft 8 in (59.94 m)
  • Height: 63 ft 5 in (19.33 m)
  • Max takeoff weight: 833,000 lb (377,842 kg)
  • Powerplant: 4 × General Electric CF6-80C2B1 turbofan engines, 56,700 lbf (252 kN) thrust each

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 547.5 kn (630.1 mph, 1,014.0 km/h) at 35,000 ft (10,668 m)
  • Maximum speed: Mach 0.92
  • Cruise speed: 500 kn (580 mph, 930 km/h) / M0.84 at 35,000 ft (10,668 m)
  • Range: 6,800 nmi (7,800 mi, 12,600 km)
  • Service ceiling: 45,100 ft (13,700 m)

Notable appearances in media

[edit]
Main article: Aircraft in fiction § Boeing 747

The VC-25 "Air Force One" is a prominent symbol of the U.S. presidency and its powers; with the White House and presidential seal, it is among the most recognized presidential symbols.[41] Air Force One has often appeared in popular culture and fiction, including the setting of the 1997 action movie Air Force One where the aircraft had an escape pod and a parachute ramp, unlike the actual presidential aircraft.[42]

See also

[edit]

Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

References

[edit]
Notes
  1. ^ Thomas, H. "U.S. considers Air Force One from Airbus." Archived 6 April 2009 at the Wayback Machine heraldnet.com, 17 January 2009. Retrieved: 26 June 2009.
  2. ^ a b c Jenkins 2000, pp. 55–56.
  3. ^ Williams, Rudi. "Reagan Makes First, Last Flight in Jet He Ordered." Archived 8 April 2016 at the Wayback Machine U.S. Department of Defense, 10 June 2004. Retrieved: 28 July 2013.
  4. ^ Butler, Amy, and Guy Norris, "Foregone Conclusion", Aviation Week and Space Technology, 9 June 2014, pp. 40-41.
  5. ^ "VC-25 - Air Force One". Air Force. Archived from the original on 17 January 2024. Retrieved 26 January 2024.
  6. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Wallace, Chris (host). "Aboard Air Force One." Fox News, 24 November 2008. Retrieved: 28 November 2008.
  7. ^ Harris, Tom. "How Air Force One Works." Archived 13 April 2010 at the Wayback Machine HowStuffWorks.com. Retrieved: 10 October 2006.
  8. ^ Keith, Tamara (31 August 2023). "Why Biden is now routinely taking the short stairs up to Air Force One". National Public Radio. Retrieved 19 February 2024.
  9. ^ Stebner, Greg (narrator). "On Board Air Force One." Archived 3 February 2009 at the Wayback Machine National Geographic Channel, 25 January 2009. Retrieved: 26 June 2009.
  10. ^ "Air Force One: The President's office in the sky". The White House. Archived from the original on 12 August 2022. Retrieved 12 August 2022.
  11. ^ Cenciotti, David (23 October 2018). "These Are The Systems that Protect Air Force One From Heat-Seeking Missiles". The Aviationist. Retrieved 15 November 2024.
  12. ^ "AN/ALQ-204 Matador Infrared Countermeasure (IRCM)". www.globalsecurity.org. Retrieved 15 November 2024.
  13. ^ "Bush trip to Baghdad kept top-secret". NBC News. 28 November 2003. Retrieved 15 November 2024.
  14. ^ Felsenthal, Carol. "When Bill Clinton Left the White House" Archived 22 December 2015 at the Wayback Machine. Chicago Daily Observer, 22 January 2009. Retrieved: 26 June 2009.
  15. ^ "Bush flies to Texas to begin post-presidential life." Archived 21 August 2017 at the Wayback Machine The New York Times, 20 January 2009. Retrieved: 9 September 2011.
  16. ^ Bernstein, Adam (29 April 2006). "Col. James Swindal; Piloted Air Force One After Kennedy's Death". The Washington Post. Archived from the original on 13 November 2012. Retrieved 16 August 2011.
  17. ^ Foley, Thomas (25 January 1973). "Thousands in Washington Brave Cold to Say Goodbye to Johnson". Los Angeles Times. p. A1.
  18. ^ "US considers Airbus A380 as Air Force One and potentially a C-5 replacement". Flight Global. 17 October 2007. Archived from the original on 11 April 2016. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
  19. ^ "USAF Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization (PAR) Program." Archived 31 March 2019 at the Wayback Machine USAF Materiel Command, 7 January 2009. Retrieved: 8 January 2009.
  20. ^ "EADS waves off bid for Air Force One replacement". Flight Global. 28 January 2009. Archived from the original on 19 March 2016. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
  21. ^ "USAF Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization (PAR) Program, Interested Vendors List." Archived 17 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine USAF Materiel Command, 7 January 2009. Retrieved: 8 January 2009.
  22. ^ Butler, Amy. "Boeing Only Contender for New Air Force One." Archived 14 February 2016 at the Wayback Machine Aviation Week, 28 January 2009. Retrieved 28 January 2009.
  23. ^ AF Identifies Boeing 747-8 platform for next Air Force One Archived 3 March 2016 at the Wayback Machine.
  24. ^ Mehta, Aaron (28 January 2015). "Boeing Tapped for Air Force One Replacement". Defense News. Retrieved 26 April 2024.
  25. ^ "Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization". FedBizOpps. 10 May 2016. Archived from the original on 2 October 2018. Retrieved 12 May 2016.
  26. ^ "A new Air Force One for Trump or Clinton is on the way". Air Force Times. 11 May 2016. Retrieved 12 May 2016.
  27. ^ "Boeing Wins Second Air Force One Contract". Aviation Week. 21 July 2016. Archived from the original on 9 June 2021. Retrieved 21 July 2016.
  28. ^ Kevin Breuninger, Amanda Macias (27 February 2018). "The White House cuts $3.9 billion deal with Boeing for two new Air Force Ones". CNBC. Archived from the original on 27 February 2018. Retrieved 27 February 2018.
  29. ^ "Trump Wanted a Cheaper Air Force One. So the USAF Is Buying a Bankrupt Russian Firm's Undelivered 747s". Defense One. Archived from the original on 1 August 2017. Retrieved 2 August 2017.
  30. ^ "CEO: Boeing Should Have Rejected Trump's Air Force One Deal". 27 April 2022. Retrieved 27 April 2022.
  31. ^ Allen, Mike (12 July 2018). "Scoop: Trump wants tough new Air Force One paint job". Axios. Archived from the original on 3 October 2020. Retrieved 8 October 2020.
  32. ^ "Trump to redesign Air Force One". BBC News. 17 July 2018. Archived from the original on 7 August 2020. Retrieved 8 October 2020.
  33. ^ Patton, Phil (24 February 2009). "Air Force One: The Graphic History". American Institute of Graphic Arts. Archived from the original on 21 February 2020. Retrieved 8 October 2020.
  34. ^ a b Tangel, Andrew; Restuccia, Andrew (10 June 2022). "Biden Reverses Trump Plan to Paint Air Force One Red, White and Blue". Wall Street Journal. ISSN 0099-9660. Retrieved 15 July 2022.
  35. ^ a b Liebermann, Oren (10 March 2023). "New color scheme unveiled for Air Force One that discards Trump's design". CNN. Retrieved 11 March 2023.
  36. ^ a b "New paint design for 'Next Air Force One'". U.S. Air Force. Air Force News Service. 10 March 2023. Retrieved 11 March 2023.
  37. ^ "First New Air Force One Begins Modification Process". 11 March 2020.
  38. ^ Tangel, Andrew (5 April 2022). "Boeing's New Air Force One Hit by Production Mishaps". Wall Street Journal. ISSN 0099-9660. Retrieved 15 July 2022.
  39. ^ "Bush Foundation wants retiring Air Force One for museum". airforcetimes.com
  40. ^ "Air Force One Technical Specs." Archived 22 March 2016 at the Wayback Machine Boeing Defense, Space and Security. Retrieved: 26 March 2016.
  41. ^ "'We're the Only Plane in the Sky'". Politico. September 2016. Gordon Johndroe: You cannot hide a blue-and-white 747 that says 'United States of America' across the top. You can't move it secretly through the daylight.
  42. ^ Hardesty 2003, p. 15.
Bibliography
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Boeing VC-25A.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Boeing_VC-25&oldid=1268499470"