History
Air Force One
The long-range version of the Boeing 707-320 intercontinental became the most commonly ordered version of the 707 airliner. Its fuselage was 8 feet longer than the 707-120 and its wingspan was 12 feet longer.
With new turbofan jet engines, the B versions had a range of 6,000 miles, and in 1962, a 707-320B took over the role of U.S. government VIP and presidential transport, designated VC-137C. A second VC-137C was delivered in 1972. These were the first Air Force Ones.
President John F. Kennedy's wife, Jacqueline Kennedy, selected the colors of the first Air Force One, VC-137C. The 707s served as presidential aircraft until they were replaced by 747-200s, designated VC-25, in 1990.
| First flight: | Jan. 11, 1959 |
|---|---|
| Model number: | 707-320 |
| Classification: | Commercial transport |
| Span: | 142 feet 5 inches |
| Length: | 152 feet 11 inches |
| Gross weight: | 316,000 pounds |
| Cruising speed: | 600 mph |
| Range: | 6,000 miles |
| Ceiling: | 41,000 feet |
| Power: | Four 18,000-pound-thrust P&W JT3D turbofan engines |
| Accommodation: | Up to 189 passengers |