Overview

From Presidents Roosevelt to Biden, Boeing airplanes have transported U.S. presidents around the world. The U.S. Air Force announced that it will continue the Boeing tradition with the 747-8, which will replace the two 747-200s that serve as the presidential Air Force One fleet.

When the 747-8 takes flight as the next Air Force One, Boeing airplanes will mark more than half a century of presidential service through the Jet Age.

Visit our gallery to see more historical photos of U.S. presidential aircraft.

Capabilities and Features - Current Presidential Airplane (Boeing 747-200)

Today, the chief executive flies aboard a specially configured 747-200B, the newest and largest presidential airplane. Its capabilities include:

Longer range for presidential travel
Aerial refueling
Self-sufficiency at airports around the world

The "flying Oval Office" has 4,000 square feet of interior floor space. Among its accommodations are:

Conference/dining room
Quarters for the president and the first lady
An office area for senior staff members
Another office that converts into a medical facility when necessary
Work and rest areas for the presidential staff, media representatives and Air Force crews
Two galleys that can provide 100 meals at one sitting
Multi-frequency radios for air-to-air, air-to-ground and satellite communications
Principal differences between Air Force One and the standard Boeing 747 include state-of-the-art navigation, electronic and communications equipment; its interior configuration and furnishings; self-contained baggage loader; and front and aft air-stairs.

747-200/ 747-8 Comparison

Infographic detailing worldwide presence, robust service capabilities, and efficient performance.

Technical Specifications - Current Presidential Airplane (Boeing 747-200)

Crew	26 (passenger/crew capacity: 102)
Model	747-200B
Engines	General Electric CF6-80C2B1
Thrust rating	56,700 pounds, each engine (252 kn)
Long-range mission takeoff gross weight	833,000 pounds (377,842 kg)
Maximum zero fuel weight	526,500 pounds (238,800 kg)
Design mission zero fuel weight	46,000 pounds (20,865 kg)
Maximum landing weight	630,000 pounds (285,763 kg)
Fuel capacity	53,611 gallons (203,129 L)
Range	7,800 statute miles
Wing span	195 feet, 8 inches (59.64 m)
Length	231 feet, 10 inches (70.66 m)
Height	63 feet, 5 inches (19.33 m)
Service ceiling	45,100 feet (13.747 m)