Air Force One is a Boeing 747-200B that has been modified to meet presidential requirements. The aircraft is known by the radio call sign used when the president is aboard: Air Force One.
Historically, several U.S. presidents have flown on Boeing aircraft.
- In 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt flew to Casablanca aboard a Boeing model 314 Clipper.
- In 1962, Boeing introduced U.S. presidents to modern jet transportation with the introduction of the Boeing model 707-320B. In all, seven presidents were served by the 707-320B.
- Today, the chief executive 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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