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Shelley Osterloh ReportingPresident Bush will touch down in Air Force One at the Utah Air National Guard base at the Salt Lake International Airport tonight. While many will gather to catch a glimpse of the President arriving, others may come just to see his plane.
Some call it the "Flying White House." It is an amazing plane, but there are actually two of them, nearly identical. It's been reported that sometimes one even flies as a decoy.
Both planes are 747's specially modified, and the plane only takes on the name "Air Force One", when the president of the United states is onboard. While there's a lot about this plane that is a secret, some of its features are known.
Air Force One is almost as tall as a six story building and as long as a city block. With a full tank it can fly more than third of the way around the world and can be refueled in the air so it can fly indefinitely.
On Sept 11th, when it appeared the White House was a target, the President's executive jet served as a mobile bunker.
In 1997 an action movie starring Harrison Ford featured Air Force One. While it was inspired by the real plane, the movie did take some artistic liberties. For example, the Air Force says the real plane does not have an escape pod, but the movie does give a good look at some of the basic layout and modifications.
Like a normal 747, Air Force One has three levels. The lowest level serves mostly as cargo space for luggage, food and equipment. The upper deck consists of the cockpit and communications areas. The Middle deck holds the bulk of the passengers, but looks more like a hotel or executive office.
The President has onboard living quarters with his own bedroom, bathroom, workout room and office space. The staff meets in a large conference room, which doubles as the president's dining room. There are also office areas for senior staff members and a separate area for reporters traveling with the president.
Though it is luxurious, it is every bit a military aircraft, with extensive electronics, heavy shielding, and the ability to jam enemy radar.
Air Force One is one of the most recognized symbols of the Presidency and it will remain at Salt Lake International Airport, until the president leaves tomorrow morning. Unfortunately, the plane won't be where the public can see it, but those who have tickets to the President's Arrival, will likely get a glimpse.
