Air Force One
Air Force One is the official air traffic control call sign aircraft carrying the president of the United States. Air Force One is usually always referred to any aircraft the president and his staff travels on. The official name of the plane is the SAM 2900 and VC-25.[1]
Air Force One is one of the most recognizable symbols of the presidency not just in American culture but across the world. Emblazoned with the words “United States of America,” the United States flag, and the Seal of the President of the United States. Air Force One has an undeniable and amired presence wherever it goes and flies to.[1]
History
[change | change source]Air Force One is maintained and operated by the Presidential Airlift Group, part of the White House Military Office. The Airlift Group was founded in 1944 as the Presidential Pilot Office at the direction of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.[1]
For the next 15 years, various propeller-driven aircraft served until President Dwight D. Eisenhower flew to Europe aboard VC-137A, a Boeing 707 Stratoliner, in August 1959.[1]
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy became the first president to fly in a jet specifically built for presidential use a modified Boeing 707 until it retired in 1990.[1]
The current presidential aircraft, Boeing 747-200B, became the new and modified presidential plane in 1990, when President George H.W. Bush became the first president to ride on the aircraft.[1]
Layout and amenities
[change | change source]- Inside, the president and his staff members can enjoy 4,000 square feet of floor space on three floors, including an extensive suite for the president that features a large office, lavatory, conference room, gym, and a large bathroom.[1]
- Air Force One includes a medical suite that can function as an operating room, and a doctor is permanently on board. The plane’s two food preparation galleys can feed 100 people at a time. It can also prepare up to 2,000 meals[1]
- Air Force One also has quarters for those who accompany the president, including senior advisors, Secret Service officers, traveling press, and other guests. Several cargo planes typically fly ahead of Air Force One to provide the president with vehicles and services needed in remote locations.[1]
- The aircraft has two lower decks so stairs won't be an issue in foreign countries.[2]
- It has 85 telephones for government secured lines and regular use.[2]
- It has 20 television sets.[2]
- All of it's windows are bulletproof and armored.[2]
References
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