Air Force One is a Boeing 747-200B aircraft that was extensively modified to meet presidential requirements. The original paint scheme was designed at the request of President John F. Kennedy, who wanted the airplane to reflect the spirit of the national character.
In 1990, a modified Boeing 747-200B Air Force One presidential aircraft replaced the Boeing 707-320 airframe that served the nation’s chief executives for nearly 30 years. Today, the chief executive flies aboard a modified 747-200B, the newest and largest presidential airplane. The 747 is ideally suited to support the travel requirements of the president.
About 238 miles of wire wind through the residential carrier. This is more than twice the wiring found in a typical 747. W iring is shielded to protect it from electromagnetic pulse, which is generated by a thermonuclear blast and interferes with electronic signals. The airplane’s mission communications system provides worldwide transmission and reception of normal and secure communications. The equipment include 85 telephones, as well as multi-frequency radios for air-to-air, air-to ground and satellite communications. Air Force One provides longer range for presidential travel and can be self-sufficient at airports around the world. Modified for aerial refueling, it has virtually unlimited range.