Understanding Air Force One and Presidential Aircraft When the President is Not On Board

When the president is not on board, what happens to Air Force One and the presidential aircraft? This article explores the specifics of call signs and identification when the president is not aboard any given aircraft and provides anecdotes from historical events.

The Significance of 'Air Force One'

It is a common misconception that 'Air Force One' is the name of a specific plane. In reality, the term is the designated flight designation, not the plane itself. Therefore, any aircraft operated by the U.S. Air Force and used for the President's transportation is referred to as 'Air Force One' while the president is aboard.

Call Signs and Identification

When the president is not on board, the aircraft identification changes. The plane does retain its tail number, which is unique to each aircraft. For instance, when the two Boeing VC-25 aircraft, SAM 28000 and SAM 29000, do not have the president on board, they are identified by these tail numbers.

A Nixon Resignation Anecdote

One of the most interesting anecdotes is related to Richard Nixon. Nixon left Andrews Air Force Base on August 9, 1974, aboard a VC-137C aircraft, tail number 26000, that usually served as his primary mode of transportation. During the flight to California, while enroute, Nixon's resignation took effect, and Gerald Ford was sworn in as the new president. This shift in command posed a significant challenge for the crew, with Colonel Ralph Albertazzie, the pilot, reassigning the call sign to SAM 27000, as the president was no longer on board.

The Technical Angle

Technically, there is no 'Air Force One' when the President is not aboard an aircraft. Similar to other government aircraft that carry the president, the plane will be identified by its tail number or assigned a mission number.

A Final Thought

It's important to appreciate the challenges faced by individuals in high positions. For instance, President Biden's steps can be challenging for anyone, especially those with arthritis, leg issues, or back problems. While political conflicts and media biases can lead to dissatisfaction among the public, it's essential to address personal areas and matters locally rather than seeking external grievances. The eccentricities of political communication, known as 'PSYOP' or psychological operations, can also impact public mood and satisfaction.