Boeing VC-25A (Air Force One)
The VC-25A is the U.S. Air Force's presidential air transport, a specially configured Boeing 747-200B that becomes "Air Force One" whenever the president is aboard. Two were built, tail numbers 28000 and 29000, assigned to the Presidential Airlift Group of the 89th Airlift Wing at Andrews Air Force Base. They differ from the standard 747 in their advanced navigation, communications and electronics, in-flight refueling capability, self-contained airstairs and baggage loader, and an interior with a presidential suite, office, conference and dining areas, medical facility, and accommodations for staff, security and press, with galleys able to serve about 100 meals.
The first VC-25A flew as Air Force One in September 1990, carrying President George H. W. Bush. The aircraft continue a presidential air-transport tradition dating to President Roosevelt's wartime C-54, and stand among the most recognizable aircraft in the world.
Specifications
- Manufacturer
- Boeing
- Type
- Presidential VIP transport (modified Boeing 747-200B)
- Crew
- 26 (passenger/crew capacity up to 102)
- First Flight
- 1990 (first VC-25A delivered)
- Powerplant
- 4 x General Electric CF6-80C2B1 turbofans, 56,700 lbf each
- Max Speed
- 630 mph (Mach 0.92)
- Range
- Approx. 7,800 statute miles (6,800 nm; 12,550 km)
- Service Ceiling
- 45,100 ft (13,746 m)
- Length
- 231 ft 10 in (70.7 m)
- Wingspan
- 195 ft 8 in (59.6 m)
- Loaded Weight
- Max takeoff 833,000 lb (374,850 kg)