Overview

Air Force One: The Definitive History, Operations, and Security of The POTUS' Airplane by Dr. Andrew Wharton is a comprehensive exploration of the iconic aircraft that serves as the airborne embodiment of American presidential power. Far more than a mode of transportation, Air Force One is a mobile command center, a diplomatic envoy, and a symbol of national resilience. This meticulously researched volume traces the aircraft's evolution from its origins in the 1940s to its modern iterations, delving into its engineering marvels, operational protocols, and unparalleled security measures that ensure the President's safety and continuity of government in any scenario. Dr. Wharton begins with the aircraft's historical roots, detailing Franklin D. Roosevelt's pioneering flights during World War II aboard the Dixie Clipper and the Sacred Cow, the first purpose-built presidential plane. The narrative progresses through the jet age under Dwight D. Eisenhower, who introduced the ""Air Force One"" call sign, to John F. Kennedy's iconic Boeing 707, which set a new standard with its sleek design and global reach. From Lyndon B. Johnson's somber oath aboard SAM 26000 to Ronald Reagan's Cold War diplomacy, the book captures how Air Force One has been a witness to history, facilitating pivotal moments like Nixon's 1972 China visit and George W. Bush's post-9/11 crisis response. The book provides an in-depth look at the current fleet-two Boeing 747-200B models (VC-25A, tail numbers 28000 and 29000)-delivered in the 1990s and equipped with 4,000 square feet of interior space, including a presidential suite, conference rooms, medical facilities, and galleys serving up to 100 passengers. Wharton details the aircraft's advanced engineering, from electromagnetic pulse shielding and missile countermeasures to in-flight refueling capabilities, making it a veritable ""Flying White House."" Operational protocols are meticulously examined, revealing the intricate coordination of pilots, stewards, medical staff, and Secret Service personnel, all trained to handle routine flights and global crises with precision. Security is a central theme, with chapters dedicated to the aircraft's defenses against physical and electronic threats, including armored plating, infrared jammers, and secure communications systems that enable presidential command in nuclear scenarios. The book also addresses myths, such as the persistent rumor of escape pods popularized by Hollywood, offering official clarifications while exploring why such legends endure. Diplomatically, Air Force One's role in state visits, summits, and emergency evacuations underscores its power as a tool of soft power and strategic projection. Looking forward, Wharton examines the transition to the next-generation VC-25B (Boeing 747-8), including the controversial acquisition of a Qatari-gifted jet, and explores emerging technologies like AI integration that will shape the future of presidential aviation. The book concludes with a reflection on Air Force One's enduring legacy, weaving together its impact on mobility, national security, and American history. Praise for the Book: ""Dr. Wharton's Air Force One is a tour de force, blending rigorous research with compelling storytelling to unveil the aircraft's role as a cornerstone of American leadership. A must-read for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike."" - Aviation Week ""An authoritative and engaging account that lifts the veil on one of the world's most iconic aircraft, revealing its technological prowess and historical significance."" - The Washington Post

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