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Nat Geo Special Examines New Air Force One
The replacement aircraft, based on the 747-8, the latest and final passenger version of the four-engine jumbo jet, are due to enter service in 2024; but before then, the two aircraft are in the process of a massive remanufacturing that will convert them from standard passenger aircraft into the Flying White House. (www.ainonline.com) Más...Sort type: [Top] [Newest]
AF1 always flies with more than one crew even on short domestic trips.
They are setup to be autonomous for up to 72 hours in case of unforeseen circumstances. They have small weapons (M-16 type) on board - probably other handheld weapons like grenade launchers, I'd imagine.
They have to be prepared if someone attempts to hold the airplane hostage, or if they get stuck somewhere for other reasons.
They have to be prepared if someone attempts to hold the airplane hostage, or if they get stuck somewhere for other reasons.
That is the job of the USAF Ravens. They protect the aircraft. The Secret Service protects the President. Ravens guard the aircraft literally all the time...even now when it is in build phase. When a VC-25 goes into depot, Ravens go with it. Raven duty is hard work, with frequent travel. The time spent at depot is more stable and often viewed as a break. Learned all this in my 3 years at Andrews.
Haven't heard anybody talking about the USAF Ravens in a long time. Extremely fascinating job, one of those branches of the military that doesn't get enough recognition for their behind the scenes work. Hats of to them!
Yes, they are always there, 24/7, no matter where the aircraft is parked. Over the past few years, I’ve seen them at least a half dozen times at my airport.....
When I was working on the Current AF1 747s in Wichita security was a bear in and out every day. We got checked going in and going out twice by the AF security teams.
Perhaps this will be downvoted but when the premier air-superiority jets of the USAF have digital everything cockpits, it would seem that the US armed forces have the capability to shield from hostile intrusions. The only question then is whether unintentional bugs will lead to problems. However, one should not forget that the additional options of digital systems and the reduced workload brings its own benefits. As such, after careful examination I expect modern technology was found to be an overall improvement. As for the 2 vs 4 argument, I wonder whether it was determined that 4 decision makers increased the time needed to coordinate opinions. As such, 2 pilots might simplify the job as thus be simpler. In addition, one should not forget that these pilots are perhaps some of the best one can find anywhere. In addition and correct me if Im wrong but routine communications workloads from speaking with other airborne aviators, centers and towers is greatly reduced as everything/everyone is moved out of the area when AF1 comes through. Perhaps the only question to me is whether the USAF will add a secret option to remotely pilot the airplane in case of incapacity. I wonder I wonder... this could be the basis for a next blockbuster film, I suppose.
Am I wrong to be having reservations about the ability of just two flight officers to handle that workload, no matter the improvements of the systems? I do not doubt that these are some superbly trained and qualified aviators, but I also do not doubt that in the event things go south I'd want the guy/gal handling aircraft defense to not also be running checklists for some other issue.