Air Force One: A Look Into Obama's Flying Fortress

Barack Obama, the President of the United States will visit India during the Republic Day celebrations, as the Chief guest.

He will travel to India in his Presidential flight, Air Force One. Let us look at a few facts about his flying fortress and what makes this aircraft unique.

• The 'Air Force One' call sign was created in 1953, after the fight entered the same airspace as a commercial airline flight using the same call sign.
• The Air Force One has fully equipped office areas with telecommunication system, which include 87 telephones and 19 televisions.
• There are two identical Boeing 747-200Bs to act as decoys and a third chartered jet for office staff and security personnel.
• The aircraft is self-sufficient and all meals are prepared in the aircraft itself.

The Air Force One is equipped with the following:

• A Medical Office which includes an operating table, emergency medical supplies, and a fully stocked pharmacy.
• A Communication centre, with 386 km of wiring shielded from electromagnetic interference.
• Every flight is staffed by a doctor and a nurse.
• The President can address the nation from his office in the flight itself
• A conference room with a plasma screen TV that can be used for teleconferencing

The general specifications of the aircraft:

• Type: Boeing 747-200B
• Crew: 26 (incl two pilots)
• Capacity: 78 passengers
• Length: 70.6m
• Wingspan: 59.8m
• Height: 19.3m
• Max Weight: 3,75,000 kg
• Cruise Speed: 925 km/h
• Range: 13,000km