Air transports of heads of state and government

Some nations maintain one or more special aircraft to transport their heads of state and government. One in particular has been immortalised in popular culture: Air Force One, used by the President of the United States and operated by the United States Air Force.

Contents: A B C D E F G H I J K M N O P R S T U V Y Z – Notes

Argentina

Main article: Agrupación Aérea Presidencial

The Agrupación Aérea Presidencial (Spanish for Presidential Air Group) is the Head of State Air Transport Unit of Argentina. A Boeing 757 is currently the Tango 01, or presidential transport. Two Fokker F28 aircraft are known as the Tango 02 and the Tango 03. Also several Sikorsky helicopters are in use.

Armenia

The Armenian Government uses an Airbus 319 (EK-RA01) and a Tupolev Tu-134 (EK-65072).

Australia

See also: Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft

An RAAF Boeing 737 BBJ at Sydney Airport

No. 34 Squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force operates the current VIP fleet of two 737 Boeing Business Jets and three Challenger 604s for use by Australian officials; in particular the Governor-General, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Leaders of Political Parties not in Government and the Deputy Prime-Minister. The aircraft are regularly used for both domestic and international travel and are also made available to the Australian Royal Family.

The five BBJs were acquired on a 13 year lease in 2002 and are fitted with facilities such as conference tables, offices suites and secure satellite and communication capabilities. The two planes also have a longer range than is standard for 737 BBJs. Both the BBJs and Challengers are based at Defence Establishment Fairbairn in Canberra and are maintained by Qantas Defence Services.

Azerbaijan

President of Azerbaijan uses an Airbus 319-115X CJ "Baku" 4K-AZ01 as country's Air Force One, equipped with jamming equipment, anti-missile systems and air-to-air refueling facility. This airplane is named after country's capital city Baku.

Bangladesh

The President, Prime Minister or the head of the government travel on a specially reserved Biman Bangladesh Airlines aircraft. For long distance flights or flights with an especially large entourage, usually a McDonnell Douglas DC-10 aircraft is used, whereas for medium to short distance flights an Airbus A310 aircraft is used. In many cases, two Biman aircraft are reserved for government flights, one as a standby aircraft.

Bahrain

Bahrain Royal Flight Boeing 747SP

The Bahrain Royal Flight operates a Boeing 747-400 and Boeing 747SP for use by the King of Bahrain.

Belarus

Boeing 737-800BBJ operated by Belavia on behalf of the Government of Belarus.

The airline Belavia operates a Boeing Business Jet (Registered EW-001PA), and a Tupolev Tu-154M on behalf of the government for use of the President and Prime Minister.

The plane, instead of being painted sky blue as normal Belavia planes, it is painted in red and green. These colors are derived from the national flag. The Russian and Belarusian name of the country, "Беларусь," appears near the door on both sides in red. On the tail-fin of the plane, the national emblem appears in full color.

Bolivia

The Bolivian Air Force operates a Sabreliner NA-265 jet, acquired in 1975 for use by the President and government officials. In July, 2010, the Bolivian government bought a Dassault Falcon 900EX. The new jet is currently grounded, due to lack of Bolivian pilots qualified to fly this model.

Botswana

The Botswana Defence Force operates a Gulfstream IV as a VIP transport. This is registered OK2 The Botswana Defence Force also operates a Global Express OK1 as a VIP transport.

Bulgaria

In Bulgaria, Aviodetachment-28 of the Bulgarian Air Force operates an Airbus A319, Tupolev Tu-154M (Grounded after the Smolensk air disaster in April 2010), Dassault Falcon 2000, Mil Mi-8 and Agusta AW 109 Power helicopters for use by the President, the Prime Minister and other government officials.

Brazil

Airbus A319 VC-1A or Brazilian Air Force One

Embraer 190 designated as VC-2 used by the President of Brazil in short-range flights.

Main article: Brazilian Air Force One

The main Presidential aircraft used by the Brazilian Government is a modified Airbus A319, designated by the Brazilian Air Force as VC-1A and officially christened as the "Santos-Dumont", after the Brazilian aviation pioneer. The VC-1A is used for transporting the President on international medium and long-range travel. For short-range flights the President is transported in one of the two modified Embraer 190 presidential jets. When an aircraft is transporting the President of Brazil it uses the callsign Força Aérea 01 (Brazilian Air Force One), ICAO code BRS01.

The Special Transport Group (GTE) of the Brazilian Air Force is responsible for transporting the President, the Vice-President and senior ministers of the Brazilian Government. The GTE comprises 22 aircraft:

• A modified VIP-configured Airbus A319 (VC-1A) "Santos-Dumont" used on all international flights carrying the President.
• Two modified VIP-configured Embraer 190 jets, "Bartolomeu de Gusmão" and "Augusto Severo", used on domestic and regional flights carrying the President.
• Two VIP-configured Eurocopter Super Puma (VH-34) presidential helicopters.
• Two VIP-configured Embraer ERJ-145 (VC-99C) aircraft.
• Ten Embraer ERJ-145 (C-99A) aircraft.
• Three Gates Learjet 35 (VU-35) jets.

The fleet is headquartered at the Brasília Air Force Base (BABR).

Brunei

His Majesty The Sultan's Flight has several aircraft in VIP configuration on which to travel internationally. The fleet of aircraft is used exclusively for the Sultan of Brunei and members of the Royal Family.

• Boeing 767-200ER V8-MHB
• Boeing 747-400 V8-ALI
• Airbus A340-200 V8-BKH
• Gulfstream V V8-001
• Gulfstream V V8-007
• Gulfstream IV V8-SR1
• Sikorsky S-76+ V8-HB1
• Sikorsky S-76+ V8-HB2

Burkina Faso

The government of Burkina Faso uses a special Boeing 727. A Falcon 900 has been added, and is the type frequently in use now.

Canada

One of Canada's 5 CC-150 Polaris strategic transport configured for government VIP transport.

The Challenger 601 is used to transport the Canadian Prime Minister and Governor General.

Main article: Canadian Forces VIP aircraft

The Canadian Forces Air Command operates five Airbus A310-300s (CC-150 Polaris), flown by crews of 437 Transport Squadron, based at CFB Trenton, four of which are Bombardier Challenger 600 business jets (CC-144), operated by 412 Squadron while the fifth is for VIP transport and charged with flying the Governor General of Canada, the Prime Minister of Canada, and other high ranking government officials and foreign dignitaries. The CC-150 Polaris is primarily used for long distance trips while the CC-144 is used for short distance trips.

Chile

FACh Boeing 737-500 VIP transport at Sydney Airport in Australia

The transportation of the President was in charge of the formerly state-owned flag carrier Lan Airlines, providing a Boeing 707 or a Boeing 737-200.

Nowadays, the transportation is under the responsibility of the Chilean Air Force ([Fuerza Aérea de Chile] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help) (FACh)), which operates the following aircraft:

• 1 Boeing 737-500
• 1 Beechcraft 200 King Air
• 1 Gulfstream IV
• 1 Boeing 767-300ER. This aircraft was bought to replace the Boeing 737 in transcontinental flights. As of 2009 it is the only VIP FACh aircraft which uses the standard Chilean military livery, considering its multipurpose as VIP and freight transporter.

Formerly, FACh used a Boeing 707-320C which is still in service for military purposes.

China

Domestic air transportation for the President or government officials of the People's Republic of China is managed and operated by the 34th division of People's Liberation Army Air Force. Boeing 737s are used for these missions. International air transportation is operated by the government owned national carrier Air China. Boeing 747-400 all-passenger aircraft are usually used.

• Boeing 737-76D × 2: B-4025, B-4026
• Boeing 737-34N × 2: B-4020, B-4021
• Boeing 737-33A × 2: B-4018, B-4019
• Boeing 737-3TO × 2: B-4008, B-4009
• Boeing 737-3Q8 × 2: B-4052, B-4053
• Tu-154 × ?
• Bombardier CRJ200 ER × 8~10
• Bombardier Challenger 600 × 10
• Learjet 45 × ?

A Boeing 767-300ER (formerly B-4025) was purchased by the Chinese government for use by President Jiang Zemin in 2000. This Boeing 767 was originally ordered by Delta Air Lines. An international incident occurred in 2001 when the government claimed it had discovered 27 bugs embedded in the aircraft's interior; the plane had been refitted in San Antonio, Texas. It had since been converted back to a normal passenger airliner and transferred to Air China as B-2499.

The PLAAF 34th division was formed in 1959. Types of aircraft formerly used for VIP air transportation including Vickers Viscount, Ilyushin Il-18 and Hawker Siddeley Trident. The plane which crashed in Mongolia in 1971, carrying defecting marshal Lin Biao, was a Trident registered as CAAC B-256, piloted by Pan Jingyin (潘景寅), deputy commander of the 34th division.

Colombia

In 1933 Colombia acquired its first presidential transport airplane, a Junkers Ju 52/3m, one of the most advanced aircraft of that time. It served former Colombian president Enrique Olaya Herrera until its retirement from service in 1950. From 1953 to 1972 a Douglas C-54 Skymaster served as presidential airplane starting with the dictatorship of Gustavo Rojas Pinilla (1953–57).

In 1972 a new Fokker F28-1000 became the presidential airplane during the presidency of Misael Pastrana Borrero.

In 2005, Colombia acquired a Boeing BBJ1 for presidential transport. Its code name is FAC 0001 or Fuerza Aerea Colombiana 0001 (Colombian Air Force 0001).

Côte d'Ivoire

The Ivorian government uses a Gulfstream IV (Registered TU-VAF) as a VIP aircraft.

Cuba

Transportation for the Cuban President is the responsibility of Cubana de Aviación, one of Cuba's state-owned airlines. Although the entire fleet is available for presidential use, the most commonly used aircraft are:

2 Ilyushin Il-96 widebody for long distances

1 Ilyushin Il-62 long range for government officials

3 Yakovlev Yak-40 for short range and unpaved runways

Croatia

The Government Agency is responsible for transporting of the Croatian President, the Prime Minister and other Croatian government officials. It operates a Challenger CL-604, registered as 9A-CRO. A low-visibility grey VIP-configured Croatian Air Force Mi-8MTV-1 is used for helicopter transport (a second example crashed in 2007).

Czech Republic

The Czech Air Force operates two Airbus A319 (A319-115X(CJ)), a Bombardier Challenger 600, two Yakovlev Yak-40 airplanes and Mil Mi-8 helicopters for VIP transport, primarily that of the President, Prime Minister, and members of Government and Parliament of the Czech Republic.

Denmark

The Royal Danish Air Force operates three Challenger CL-604 for VIP transport, primarily that of the government and The Danish Royal Family. These airplanes are also used for environmental control and fishery control around Greenland and the North Sea. Further more the Danish Royal Family have one AgustaWestland EH101 Merlin at their disposal. Ministers do also fly on commercial airlines such as Scandinavian Airlines.

Ecuador

Ecuador currently uses a Embraer Legacy 600 (FAE-739) and a Rockwell Sabreliner 40D (FAE-047) for presidential transport. Aircraft from the flag-carrier airline TAME's fleet, including Airbus A319 and Embraer E-Jets can also be drafted for government use. The Plane used for long haul transport is a Airbus A320 operated by TAME

Egypt

The Egyptian government operates an Airbus A340-200 (Registered SU-GGG) as a VIP transport. The first presidential Airplane in Egypt was given as a gift from Saudi Arabia to Egyptian President Sadat. Before that, the President of Egypt, Gamal Abdel Nasser, traveled using a rented airplane from the National Egyptian Air company, Egypt Air. In 1955, and during his trip to attend the first Asian-African Conference in Bandung, Indonesia, president Nasser and his accompanying crew used a rental plane from the Indian National Air company.

El Salvador

El Salvador's president Mauricio Funes uses a deluxe version of the Bell 412 helicopter for local flights. The President also has military planes, helicopters and a presidential turboprop for his use. For international flights, a Beechjet 400A, N717TG, is used from its base at Ilopango Airport at San Salvador.

France

French Air Force Airbus A340-200 used by President Nicolas Sarkozy.

The Escadron de transport, d'entraînement et de calibrage 00.065 (ETEC 65, "Transportation, training and calibration squadron") is the unit of the French Air Force, under direct command of the Minister of Defence, in charge of the transportation of the President, the Prime Minister and other French government officials.

The ETEC operates 4 Dassault Falcon 50 (F-RAFI, F-RAFJ, F-RAFK and F-RAFL), 2 Dassault Falcon 900 (F-RAFP and F-RAFQ), 2 Dassault Falcon 7X (F-RAFA and F-RAFB) and 2 Airbus A319 CJ (F-RBFA and F-RBFB). Additionally, the unit operates three VIP-configured Super Puma helicopters (F-RAFU, F-RAFY and F-RAFZ).

French officials also use the planes of the Escadron de transport 3/60 Esterel, which operates 3 Airbus A310-304 (F-RADA, F-RADB and F-RADC) and 2 Airbus A340-211 (F-RAJA and F-RAJB). In June 2008, the French ministry of Defense announced the order of 2 Airbus A330-200 series (previously used by Air Caraibes and Swissair) to replace the Airbus 319 CJ for the transport of the President of France. Furthermore a complete overhaul of the fleet is underway.

On the night of November 5–6, 2009, the French National Assembly approved a specific budget of 185 million euros for the purchase and modification of an Airbus A330-223 from Air Caraibes (F-ZWUG, ex F-GRTP, ex F-OPTP) to be reserved for the exclusive use of the President of the Republic. This "flying Élysée", which should be ready end of 2010, will include, notably, a meeting room, an office, a bedroom and adjacent washroom, and a missile countermeasure system. The cost of operation is estimated at an average of 20,000 euros per hour of flight, as opposed to the A319's 12,000 euros/hour.

Air France chartered flights are also used by French officials, most notably Concorde when it was still in service with that airline.

The president of the Gambia has been using Ilyushin Il-62 since August 2005.

Gambia

Gambia uses an Il-62 for their VIP flights. This jet is in open storage at Banjul airport. Also a Boeing 727-95 (C5-GAF) and a Canadair Challenger 601 (C5-AFT) are in use.

Germany

Germany's Airbus A310-304 VIP 10+22 Theodor Heuss

• Airbus 310-304 - 2
• Airbus A 319CJ - 2
• Challenger 601 - 4

Germany's senior government officials use two Airbus 310-304 aircraft, previously of East Germany's Interflug, redesigned as Airbus 310 VIP by Lufthansa Technik for medium and long distance travel. The airplanes are named after Konrad Adenauer (10+21), after the first chancellor of (West) Germany, and Theodor Heuss (10+22), after the first President of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Additionally, the German air force's Special Air Mission Wing Federal Ministry of Defence (Flugbereitschaft) operates two Airbus A 319CJ (registration code 15+01/15+02) and four Challenger 601 jets (12+04 - 12+07) and three Eurocopter AS532 Cougar helicopters (82+01 - 82+03) to handle the transportation needs of representatives of the German Government, Parliament and Military.

In March 2008, the Ministry of Defense announced the intent to buy two used Airbus A340-300 passenger planes from Lufthansa as a replacement for the ageing Airbus A310 jets. They will be converted to VIP planes by Lufthansa Technik. The acquisition and conversion of these A340 planes were approved by the German parliament on 2008-03-12. They will replace the two A310 beginning in 2011. The first A319 was put into service in March, the second aircraft in August 2010. Beginning in September 2011 the four Challengers will be replaced by four Bombardier Global 5000.

Ghana

The president flies in a falcon EX 900 jet

Greece

Greece's prime minister has a Gulfstream V at his disposal, which is under the operational command of the Hellenic Air Force . The airplane was bought by the government of Costas Simitis for the needs of Greece's 2003 EU presidency and the preparations of the 2004 Olympic Games. The VIP transport squadron (112 Combat Wing at the Elefsis Air Force Base) of the Hellenic Air Force also operates two Embraer business jets. For long haul flights the Prime Minister and other officials use one of the Airbus A340-300x's from the government owned Olympic Airlines. The A340 aircraft were used for the official visit of the Greek Prime minister to Australia in 2007.

Two other aircraft used over the last two decades for the same purpose raised controversy. A Dassault Falcon 900, had a range of technical problems culminating to an accident that cost the life of the deputy minister of foreign affairs Giannos Kranidiotis and five other persons due to severe in-flight pitch oscillations 20 minutes before landing at Bucharest on September 9, 1999. Falcon's problems prompted in 1992 the government of Constantine Mitsotakis to replace it with a refitted Boeing 727 amid charges of extravagant costs. The next government of Andreas Papandreou duly converted the Boeing 727 into a charter plane in 1994.

Honduras

The Honduran President uses an IAI Westwind aircraft owned by the Honduran Air Force.

See also: Westwind (Honduran presidential plane)

Hong Kong

The Chief Executive of Hong Kong travels on commercial aircraft operated by Cathay Pacific Airways and Dragonair, the de facto flag carriers of the territory. He travels within the territory on helicopters operated by the Government Flying Service.

Iran

The president and other high ranking government officials of Iran are still using the aged but famous Shahin an special VIP designed 707 which was ordered and purchased by Shah of Iran in 1970s and was first extremely luxurious designed in contrast with US Air force One and even higher level but after Iranian revolution it redesigned as normal VIP plane. Another VIP A321 which was purchased during 1990s are also used in medium range trips of high officials like foreign minister , parliament spokesman and secretary of supreme national security council. The other VIP planes in use by the government consist of 1 Dassault Falcon 20 , 3 Dassault Falcon 50 and 1 Lockheed JetStar all operated by Iranian air force.The government of Iran also owns EP-GDS, a Boeing 727 once owned by All Nippon Airways, Ford Motor Company, and the Shah of Iran. It is stored in Iran and no longer used. The interior retains its VIP configuration ordered by Henry Ford II in the 1960s.

Iraq

The government of Iraq used a Boeing 767-200. Previously, they used an ex Air Canada aircraft. Recently Mahan Air of Iran donated an Airbus A300B4-600 aircraft which is now used on government flights.

Saddam Hussein had his own personal custom made 747SP for his travel as well as few Boeing 727s and Falcons for Governmental use

India

Air India One, the official aircraft of the President of India.

Air India One (AI-001) is the call-sign of any aircraft with the Prime Minister of India or the President of India on-board. This plane is also known as VIP-1 or Tanjore. Since 2003, a Boeing 747-437B, equipped with jamming equipment, anti-missile systems and air-to-air refueling facility, has been used as Air India One.

The Government of India uses Air India and Indian Airlines aircraft for the overseas transportation of its officials. Other Union Cabinet ministers and government officials may travel in AI-001 with the Prime Minister's consent. For domestic travel, the Prime Minister and the President use an Indian Air Force Boeing 737-200 (also known as T-43).

In 2008, the Indian Air Force inducted 3 Boeing Business Jets which will be used by VVIP Government officials. These aircraft have a range of 3,000 to 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 km) and are fitted with encrypted satellite communication facilities and advanced navigation aids. The jets are also equipped with an advanced missile warning system, a missile deflecting shield and electronic counter measures so as to provide protection from any ground-based or air-borne threats.

In 2009 India ordered 12 AgustaWestland AW101 helicopters, for the Indian President and Prime Minister. The AW-101 was selected after competing against the Sikorsky S-92 Superhawk in field trials in 2008. One particular requirement was that the helicopter have "a high tail boom" to allow the Prime Minister's car to come closer to the rear exit staircase for reduced exposure to threats.

April 1, 2009 : The Indian Air Force has now got its own version of Air Force One, the American Presidential aircraft. Three exclusive Business Boeing Jets were added to the Indian Air Force's fleet on April 1, 2009. Named Rajdhoot, Rajhans and Rajkamal, the three aircraft will be used to transport the Indian President and the Prime Minister. The President or PM will have an executive office on board, a secure communication chamber and facilities to host around 50 guests.

Unlike the US President's Air Force One, which can fly halfway around the world without refuelling, the Indian craft can do up to 3,000 nautical miles (around 5,600 kilometres).

Indonesia

The President of Indonesia and the Vice President uses a chartered Garuda Indonesia Airbus A330-300 for most overseas trip and state visits. The Indonesian Air Force also maintains a special VIP squadron for the President, Vice President and Government Ministers which is the 17th Air Squadron (Indonesian: Skadron Udara 17) consisting of Boeing 737-200, C-130 Hercules, Fokker F27-400, Fokker F28-1000, RJ-85 and Super Puma (AS 332L-1) helicopters. All aircraft and helicopters of the 17th Air Squadron are based in Halim Perdanakusuma Airforce Base, Jakarta. All presidential flights depart from Halim Perdanakusuma AFB.

As of 28 January 2010, the Indonesian Government have announced a USD 200 million budget to acquire an aircraft for President's and government use. The Government claims the costs of operation its own planes are lower than chartering the national carrier's, Garuda, for Presidential travel. It is speculated that the Government is considering a 737-family aircraft.

Ireland

Irish Air Corps Roundel

The Irish Ministerial Air Transport Squadron (MATS) (part of the Irish Air Corps) provide secure transport to the President of Ireland, the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, and members of the government and their staff, both within and outside Ireland. On long trips abroad, the President sometimes uses a chartered Aer Lingus A330-200.

The aircraft involved in carrying Irish members of state include a Beechcraft Super King Air, Gulfstream IV, and Learjet 45. International flights are flown out by the Gulfstream IV, and during 2004 the Learjet 45 was introduced into MATS service flying. A Beechcraft Super King Air is used when the Gulfstream IV or Learjet 45 are not available. The government also use AW139 helicopters.

Italy

The Italian Air Force operates three Airbus Corporate Jets. One Airbus is equipped with 30 seats for use by the Prime Minister or President, the other aircraft have 50 seats for use of government officials. Two smaller Dassault Falcon 50 and five Dassault Falcon 900 are also used for government transport. Two Agusta SH-3D Sea Kings are operated for use by the President and Government officials and are also used by the Pope. All aircraft and helicopters are operated by the 31st Wing based in Rome Ciampino airport.

Japan

Main article: Japanese Air Force One

Japanese Air Force One at Hunter Army Airfield

Japan maintains two Boeing 747-400 (20-1101 and 20-1102) aircraft mostly for the Prime Minister, the Emperor, Empress and other members of the Imperial Family, operated by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The planes are officially called seifu-senyō-ki (政府専用機, literally “Government Exclusive Aircraft”) in Japanese and Japanese Air Force One/Two in English. They have been used to transport Japanese peace-keeping troops to Iraq in the past, and are also designed to take Japanese nationals and refugees home from foreign land in serious political turmoil, chaos after natural disasters, etc.

The aircraft were construced at the Boeing factory at the same time as the U.S. Air Force One VC-25s, though the U.S. aircraft were built to the 747-200 design, while the Japanese aircraft were built to the more contemporary 747-400 design. Both Japanese aircraft were delivered in 1990.

Jordan

The King of Jordan uses an Airbus A340-600 "Prestige" operated by Royal Jordanian.

The royal family members and government officials also uses a Airbus A318-112 Elite (VQ-BDD).

Kazakhstan

Presidential Bord One is a brand new Airbus A 330 - 300. The Government of Kazakhstan uses a 767 and 757-200 for transport.

Kenya

Kenya's president has a Fokker 70 for use as the presidential jet.

Fokker executive plane was purchased at a cost of $50 million. The 70-seater jet was reconfigured into a 28-seater, with three suites, bathroom and kitchen. It is equipped with the latest telecommunication facilities.

Prior to the purchase of the Fokker, the Kenyan President primarily used Kenya Airways for his international travel.

Democratic People's Republic of Korea

The North Korean Government has access to all of the Air Koryo fleet for official services. Kim Jong Il however does not have his own plane due to his fear of flying. The main aircraft that are used from Air Koryo's fleet are the Tupolev Tu-134 and Ilyushin Il-62M

Kuwait

Kuwait Airways' only Boeing 747-400M taxis to the take off point at London Heathrow Airport

All aircraft listed below are used by the State of Kuwait and operated by Kuwait Airways:

• 9K-AHI Airbus A300B4-620
• 9K-AKD Airbus A320-212
• 9K-ALD Airbus A310-308
• 9K-GBA Airbus A340-542
• 9K-GBB Airbus A340-542(On Order)
• 9K-GEA Airbus A319-115(CJ)
• 9K-GFA Gulfstream G550

Luxembourg

LX-GDL, a private operated Cessna 550 Citation II and LX-ONE a private operated Learjet 35 A are sometimes used for governmental flights.

Madagascar

Madagascar's President recently bought a Dassault Falcon 900 for use as the presidential jet.

Mexico

Mexico's President uses mainly a Boeing 757-225 ordered by President Miguel de la Madrid built in 1987 exclusively for this purpose. The plane's official callsign when the president is inboard is TP-01, which stands for Transporte Presidencial 1 (Presidential Transport 1). When flying into airports with short runways, he uses either a Boeing 737-300 (TP-02) or a Boeing 737-322 (TP-03). For short trips he uses a Super Puma VIP edition called TPH-01 which stands for Transporte Presidencial Helicoptero 1 (Helicopter Presidential Transport 1). Before the 737's and the 757, two Boeing 727-100 were used as presidential transport. The current presidential fleet as of 2010 is as follows:

Aircraft	Registration	Code Name
Boeing 757-225	XC-UJM	TP-01
Boeing 737-300	XC-UJB	TP-02
Boeing 737-322	XC-LJG	TP-03
Gulfstream III	XC-UJN	TP-06
Gulfstream III	XC-UJO	TP-07
Learjet 35A	XC-IPP	TP-104
Rockwell Turbocommander 695A	XC-UTA	TP-216
Super Puma AS332	XC-UHV	TPH-01
Super Puma AS332	XC-UHU	TPH-02
Super Puma AS332	XC-UHO	TPH-03
Super Puma AS332	XC-UHM	TPH-05
Super Puma AS332	XC-UHP	TPH-06
Puma SA330	XC-UHC	TPH-08
Puma SA330	XC-UHA	TPH-09

Malaysia

Malaysia's Prime Minister and the Royal Family travel in a Boeing Business Jet operated by the Royal Malaysian Air Force with the serial number M53-01.The callsign of the plane is Perdana One (for the Prime Minister) or DiRaja One (if the King is aboard). The BBJ was purchased in 2003 from Malaysia Airlines who operated it with the registration number 9M-BBJ. Recently, They started to fly an Airbus A319 registered as 9M-NAA with callsign M1

Moldova

The airline Air Moldova operates a Yakovlev Yak-40 on behalf of the Moldovan Government, for use of the President and Prime Minister.

Mongolia

The Mongolian President and Prime Minister with other Parliament members use an Airbus A310-300 (registered JU-1010) or Boeing 737-800 (registered EI-CXV) for short to medium range from Government owned Mongolian Airlines. In domestic routes head of Mongolia and other government officials use Saab 340B or Fokker 50 chartered from Eznis Airways and Aero Mongolia.

Montenegro

The Government of Montenegro operates one Learjet 45 (N888CX) for VIP transport.

Morocco

King Mohammed VI of Morocco utilizes a Boeing 747-400 of the national carrier Royal Air Maroc for flights inside and outside the country.

Namibia

The Namibian government uses a Dassault Falcon 900 (registered V5-NAM) for VIP transport.

Netherlands

File:PH-KBX.jpg

PH-KBX (Etienne Jong)

The Netherlands government operates a Fokker 70 (F28-0070) as a means of transport for the Dutch Royal family and government officials, such as the prime minister and other ministers. It is used to attend international conferences, but also for private trips by the Queen and the Prince of Orange. The registration is PH-KBX; PH for the Netherlands and KBX for 'Koningin BeatriX' or 'Queen Beatrix'. The previous aircraft, a Fokker F28, was registered PH-PBX, with PBX for 'Princess BeatriX'. The aircraft is maintained by KLM Cityhopper. Furthermore, a Gulfstream IV of the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) with registration code V-11 is available as well.

For long haul trips the Royal Dutch Airline (KLM) is used. Often the upper deck of a Boeing 747 is used. Sometimes the Fokker 70 is sent ahead and the long stretch the KLM is used and for the final trip the Fokker. His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange has a Fokker 70/100 type rating and is often seen as pilot on these trips. To keep his license current he sometimes flies with KLM Cityhopper on scheduled flights.

New Zealand

Royal New Zealand Air Force Boeing 757-200 at Kemble Airfield, Gloucestershire, England, for an air display.

The Royal New Zealand Air Force maintains two Boeing 757-200s which are occasionally used to transport the Prime Minister, various government officials, as well as the head of state and members of the Royal Family when on New Zealand business. As multi-role aircraft they are more often used as transport aircraft for troops or freight. Generally the Prime Minister and government officials use commercial or chartered flights (with Air New Zealand where available) to travel both domestically and internationally.

Nigeria

The Nigerian Air Force currently maintains a Boeing Business Jet (737) as a means of transport for the President of Nigeria. The plane is marked NAF-001. The national colors of the Nigerian Flag (Green, White, Green), are painted in long horizontal stripes along the base of the white fuselage, the words "NIGERIAN AIR FORCE" are tagged on the top, and the Seal of the President of Nigeria is embossed on the tail. In addition, there are a Gulfstream V, a Gulfstream IVSP, and two Falcon 900s. One of the Falcon 900s and a BAe 800 were commandered from the national oil company and the central bank respectively, by the former military government. But the BAe 800 and a Cessna Citattion Bravo were ordered to be returned to the Air Force for military use by President Yar'Adua in Jan, 2009.

Norway

The air transport of the King and Prime Minister of Norway is mostly handled by commercial airliners (such as Scandinavian Airlines) with the VIPs travelling as normal passengers. However the Norwegian government will charter small private jets for government ministers when needed. The Royal Norwegian Air Force 717 Squadron at Rygge Air Station also maintain one Dassault Falcon 20 (5-9 passengers) for VIP-transport of the royal family, ministers and armed forces senior staff.

Oman

The Oman Royal Flight operates a Boeing 747-400, Boeing 747SP, two Gulfstream IVs and an Airbus A320. These are used by the Sultan of Oman and members of his government.

Pakistan

Pakistan Government Transport, the government carrier, currently operates an Airbus A310 and one new Gulfstream Aerospace G-IV Gulfstream IV-SP to transport government officials for the President and Prime Minister's use. The plane is commonly called "PAK ONE", the callsign under which it operates. The government also used Boeing 747 in the past from Pakistan International Airlines, the national flag carrier.

Before it came into service, Boeing 707s had served as the primary presidential aircraft. President Muhammad Zia-ul-haq used a LockheedC-130B for his trips. Previous Prime Ministers Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto used a Boeing 737 for their official trips. The airliner was maintained by Pakistan Government Transport. The Pakistan Air Force plans to purchase a Gulfstream V for transportation of high-ranking government officials and foreign dignitaries. These aircraft are based at Chaklala Airbase near the capital city of Islamabad.

PIA always transports the Presidents and Prime Ministers of Pakistan on overseas visits. During the late 1990s, Prime Minister Sharif's government bought a Boeing 737-300[24] for official use. Initially it wore a government colour scheme, and eventually a partial PIA 1990s livery was adopted as the aircraft was given to PIA for commercial use while it was not on official duty.

However, when the government changed after a military coup in 1999, the Boeing B737 was transferred to PIA permanently. The President and Prime Minister then resorted to using two of PIA's Airbus A310-300 for official visits, while rare trips were done on regular commercial flights of the airline. In February 2007 the government of Qatar gifted one of their VIP fleet A310[25] to the Pakistani government, this has ended the need for PIA planes.

A new executive jet was acquired for use by former President Pervez Musharraf, raising the number of aircraft in the VVIP fleet to 14. The 10-seater Learjet is one of the three planes whose procurement was approved by former prime minister Shaukat Aziz.

The country’s VVIP fleet includes G-IV, Cessna Citation V, Cessna Citation Excel, Learjet 35, Learjet 45 XR, Raytheon Hawker 400, Falcon 20, Cessna Conquest II, Bell 412 helicopters (3) MI-17 helicopter Airbus A310-300 and now the new LearJet .

Two other jets ordered may land in Pakistan after the elections. These jets are for personal use of president and prime minister.

The value of the new luxury jet was about $60 million, as reported by Dawn (newspaper) on 30 November 2007.

Peru

While a fleet of elderly DC-8s are maintained by the Peruvian Air Force, FAA repair station,"SEMAN" and Central Purchasing, the official aircraft of the President of Peru used to be a Boeing 737-500. It was purchased under dubious circumstances in 1995; then-president Alberto Fujimori's brother Santiago Fujimori was criminally charged for 'recommending' the multi-million dollar investment, which was seen as a frivolous purchase for a third-world country such as Peru.

The aircraft sported the Flag of Peru on the vertical fin, a white fuselage with a black underbelly with red pinstripes, and the words "República del Perú" adorning the front, with the Coat of Arms of Peru displayed on the side. Its Peruvian Air Force designator was FAP 356.

The aircraft was sold by Alan García´s government, due to the bad reputation presidential trips had among the population. The Aircraft was replaced by a new 737-500 with a new and renovated intrerior. The VIP airliner has the Peruvian coat of arms and flag in the side.

Philippines

The 250th (Presidential) Airlift Wing of the Philippine Air Force has the mandate of providing safe and efficient air transport for the President of the Philippines and the First Family. On occasion, the wing has also been tasked to provide transportation for other members of government, visiting heads of state, and other state guests.

The fleet includes: 1 Fokker F28, which is primarily used for the President's domestic trips and it is also called "Kalayaan One" when the President is onboard, 4 Bell 412 helicopters, 3 Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, 2 Aérospatiale SA-330 Puma helicopters, 1 Sikorsky S-70-5 Black Hawk, a number of Bell UH-1N Hueys, as well as Fokker F-27 Friendships. For trips outside of the Philippines, the Air Force employs a Bombardier Learjet 60 or charters appropriate aircraft from Philippine Airlines.

PAF Puma at Subic Bay

Prior to 1962, the Air Force chartered aircraft from Pan American World Airways as the international services of Philippine Airlines were suspended. For short-haul flights, Boeing 737s were initially used and have since been replaced by the Airbus A320. For medium- to long-haul flights, Boeing 747-400s were initially used; their roles are now being fulfilled by the Airbus A340-300. The aircraft with the callsign PR 001 is a special plane operated by Philippine Airlines to transport the President of the Philippines.

A Bell 412 presidential helicopter crashed on April 7, 2009 in Ifugao Province North of Manila. On board were eight people, including two cabinet undersecretaries and several military men. The flight was enroute to Ifugao from Baguio City with a presidential advance party. The last known communication with the aircraft came from Press Undersecretary Jose Capadocia, saying that it was too cloudy for the aircraft to land at its designated airport.

The Arroyo administration had planned to buy another aircraft for about 1.2 Billion pesos before her term ended in June 2010 but cancelled the planned order amid criticism of her travel expenses and questions about her personal wealth.

Poland

Main article: 36th Special Aviation Regiment

Polish Air Force Tupolev Tu-154M Presidential aircraft at Sydney Airport in Australia

The Polish Air Force maintained two modified Tupolev Tu-154Ms tail numbers 101 and 102. Tu-154 tail number 101, carrying the President of Poland Lech Kaczyński, was destroyed during 2010 Polish Air Force Tu-154 crash on 10 April 2010. As of June 2010 The Government of Poland leased an Embraer ERJ-170-200LR 175LR reg. SP-LIG from LOT, Polish airways to carry out official/state flights.

Additionally a number of Yakovlev Yak-40 and PZL M28 Bryza fixed-wing aircraft, Mil Mi-8, PZL W-3 Sokół and Bell 412 helicopters, are used for domestic transportation.

Portugal

File:Aviao portugal.jpg

Portuguese Presidencial Airplane operated by the Portuguese Air Force.

The Portuguese Air Force operates two Dassault Falcon 50 built in 1990 for use by the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister, as well as cabinet members and other dignitaries when appropriate. Additionally, for similar use, the Portuguese Air Force maintains three (but operates only one) Dassault Falcon 20 built in 1984.

Usually, for long range flights, Airbus A340 and Airbus A330 from TAP Portugal are used.

Romania

Main article: Romavia

Romania operates one Boeing 707, YR-ABB, used by the President and one BAC 1-11, YR-BRE used mostly by the Prime-Minister. Also a SA-365 Dauphin is used for internal transport. The operator of these flights is the Ministry of National Defense owned Romavia.

Starting in October 2010, the presidential administration also uses a chartered Airbus A310-300, YR-LCB, from TAROM.

Russian Federation

Main article: Russian presidential aircraft

File:GTK Rossiya Ilyushin Il-96-300PU.jpg

Ilyushin Il-96-300PU of Russia at Vnukovo International Airport in 2009.

Russia State Transport Company operates two Ilyushin Il-96-300PU for use of the President of Russia.

At least one of the aircraft was refitted as a VIP transport in 2001 by a British company for a price of GBP 10 million. The aircraft has the word "Russia" displayed in large cyrillic letters across the upper side. As pictures leaked to the Internet in 2007 indicate, the luxurious refit included gold-plated bathroom fittings, marble floors, silk-lined walls and other expensive amenities. The aircraft is reported to have an escape capsule, much like the one featured in the film "Air Force One".

Mil Mi-8 VIP helicopters are also used for domestic air transport.

Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabian Royal Flight operates a Boeing 747-300 (Registered HZ-HM1A), and a Boeing 747-400 for use by the King of Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi Royal Family has ordered an Airbus 380 with an elaborate and exclusive interior. When completed it will be the largest and most expensive personal aircraft in the world. The estimated cost of this aircraft when completed is in excess of $200,000,000.

Serbia

The Avio Service of Serbia is responsible for transporting the Serbian President, the Prime Minister and other Serbian government officials. It operates a Dassault Falcon 50 (YU-BNA) and a Learjet 31A (YU-BNZ). The government sometimes also uses Yakovlev Yak-40 aircraft of the Serbian Air Force.

Singapore

The President and Prime Minister of Singapore travel on commercial flights run by Singapore Airlines.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has no presidential aircraft, however domestic travel for senior government officials and VIPs are provided by the No. 4 (VIP) Helicopter Squadron of the Sri Lanka Air Force using 7 Bell 412EP. For international travel, either scheduled commercial flights of Sri Lankan Airlines or Mihin Lanka is used. Occasionally, the government also charters aircraft from these two companies for international travel.

Slovakia

The Slovak Government Flying Service operates two Tupolev Tu-154s, two Yakovlev Yak-40s and number of helicopters for use by the President of Slovakia, Prime Minister of Slovakia and government officials. The Prime minister has also on several occasions used commercial flights to show he is saving public funds. At the same time aircraft of the Slovak Government Flying Service have flown without passengers for training of pilots.

South Africa

The President of South Africa travels in a Boeing 737 (BBJ) operated by the South African Air Force's 21 Squadron, which is based at AFB Waterkloof near Pretoria, one of South Africa's capital cities.

South Korea

As of April 2010, the president of the Republic of Korea uses 2 CASA CN-235s, a Boeing 737-300 aircraft and a Boeing 747-400, leased from Korean Air for next 5 years. The Government of the Republic of Korea is considering of purchasing a Airbus 380, Airbus 340-600, Boeing 777-300, or Boeing 747-8 for the next presidential air transport. The livery consists of a largely white body with a colored cheatline. The first portion of the line is red while the rest of the line is blue. A similar blue and red design is on the tail. The country's name is written in both Korean and English on the side and the flag is on the tail and behind the door. The plane's registration is 85101. The Sikorsky S-92 is the presidential helicopter.

Spain

Main article: 45 Grupo de Fuerzas Aéreas

The Spanish Air Force (Spanish: Ejército del Aire) operates 2 customized Airbus A310, 5 Falcon 900, and several helicopters for transportation of the King, the President, high ranking government officials and the Royal Family. These transportation services are provided by the 45th Group of the Air Force, based in Torrejón Air Base, 24 kilometers (15 miles) away from Madrid.

Sweden

The Swedish Air Force Transport Squadron Bromma (Stockholm), based on Stockholm-Bromma Airport in the City of Stockholm, operates the State Flight (Swedish: Statsflyget). It forms part of the Transport and Special Flying Unit (TSFE, Swedish: Transport och Specialflygenheten), which in its turn is a part of the Skaraborg Wing (F 7). Currently it operates two Gulfstream IV aircraft in the VIP transport role:

• Air Force type TP 102A (tail no. 021, call sign SVF 21)
• Air Force type TP 102C (tail no. 024, call sign SVF 24)

All aircraft serve the official transport needs of His Majesty The King and other members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers, and senior Swedish Armed Forces officers.

Switzerland

The Swiss Air Force's Cessna Citation Excel

The Swiss Air Force operates a fleet of four small VIP transport aircraft:

• one Dassault Falcon 50 (T-783)

• one Cessna 560XL Citation Excel (T-784)

• one Beechcraft Super King Air (T-721) and one Beechcraft 1900D (T-729), used primarily for aerial survey but also used for transport.

These aircraft are mainly used by members of the Swiss Federal Council. Travel arrangements are coordinated by the Government Travel Centre in the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.

The 6^th Air Transport Squadron (Lufttransportstaffel 6) also operates two Eurocopter EC635 as VIP transport helicopters (T-351 and T-352) and has a number of Super Puma helicopters at its disposal, one of which is configured constantly as a VIP transport for domestic use and another one can be configured as a VIP transport.

Taiwan

Republic of China Air Force 737-800 at Songshan Airport.

Air transportation for the President or other high-ranking officials of the Republic of China is operated by the Republic of China Air Force using a customized Boeing 737-800, registration #3701 delivered from Boeing in 2001. This aircraft operates out of Taipei's Songshan Airport and is not usually permitted to fly to countries without diplomatic relations with the ROC. Instead, a Boeing 747 operated by Taiwan's national airline, China Airlines, is used for long-haul trips by the President and his staff. In addition, another three Fokker 50 turboprop perform the executive jet role for the Vice President of the Republic, premier, and other senior officials.

Tanzania

The Tanzania Government Flight Agency operates a Gulfstream G550 for VIP transports. There is a Fokker F-50 for internal and regional destinations as well.

Thailand

The Royal Thai Air Force's 602 Royal Guard Squadron operates two Boeing 737, one Airbus A319 and one Airbus A310 for the Royal flight.

The Royal Thai Air Force's 402 Royal Guard Squadron, a helicopter unit, uses Bell 412STs for Royal flights. The helicopters are expected to be replaced, as they are approaching the lifetime limit for VIP duty. The replacement for these helicopters are Sikorsky S-92 Superhawk, which are expected to be delivered in 2010.

Tunisia

The government of Tunisia operates an Airbus A340-500.

Turkey

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey has two specially configured Aircraft for his use. The first and main mode of air transport (namely, for use in Europe, Middle East and Africa) is a specially configured Airbus A319-115X CJ registered as TC-ANA. The call sign for this aircraft is TCANA (English: Turkish Republic-MOTHER). The other aircraft at the Turkish Prime Minister's disposal is a specially configured and highly customized Gulfstream G550. This is mainly used for long range missions. In addition to the abovementioned aircraft the Turkish Prime Minister also has at his or her disposal several VIP Boeing and Airbus aircraft which are maintained by Turkish Airlines, the national carrier of the Turkish Republic.

The President of the Republic of Turkey uses a Gulfstream Aerospace G-IV VIP Jet registered TC-ATA, but again has several special VIP aircraft of Turkish Airlines at his or her disposal. The call sign for this aircraft is TCATA (English: Turkish Republic-ANCESTOR). The call sign ATA has a resemblance with the word 'father' in Turkish. This word not only implies to ancestors in retrospect, but also pinpoints the leading figure in a family or in a country (cf. Atatürk-the Father of Turks or the Leading Turk). On that ground, TC-ATA (Alpha-Tango-Alpha) signifies the Turkish State Leader, and yet a memoir filled with affection, to the position which was originally chaired by Atatürk himself.

All government VIP aircraft are manned and maintained by Turkish Air Force personnel.

Turkmenistan

A Boeing 767-300ER (EZ-A700) was delivered in October 2004 for use of the President of Turkmenistan.

Ukraine

Ukraine uses an Ilyushin Il-62 for the President and a Tupolev Tu-134 for the Prime Minister as well as Yakovlev Yak-40 and Mil Mi-8 aircraft for shorter trips. A new Airbus 319 with extended range was delivered in 2010 to replace the Il-62.

A BAe 146 aircraft, delivered to the Queen's Flight in 1986 and now part of The Royal Squadron

United Kingdom

Main article: Air transport of the Royal Family and government of the United Kingdom

Air transport for the British monarch, other members of Royal Family, the Prime Minister and other ministers of the British Government is provided by either No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron of the Royal Air Force (RAF), chartered civilian aircraft or scheduled commercial flights, normally British Airways for senior members of the royal family and other commercial carriers for the Prime Minister and aides.

United States

One of the United States Air Force Boeing VC-25s used by the President and executives of the United States

Main articles: Army One, Air Force One, Marine One, Navy One, and Coast Guard One

The President typically uses one of two customized Boeing 747-200B jetliners. These aircraft carry the military designation VC-25A.

The Vice President of the United States typically uses a customized Boeing 757 designated as Air Force Two. These aircraft carry the military designation C-32.

The callsign of any plane is regular if it is not currently carrying the President or Vice-President. The callsign of any military aircraft that currently carries the President is called that military branch name followed by "One", such as Army One, Air Force One, Navy One, Coast Guard One or Marine One (which is typically associated with a helicopter). The callsign of any military aircraft that currently carries the Vice President is called that military branch name followed by "Two", such as Air Force Two or Marine Two (which is typically associated with a helicopter). In the one instance that the President traveled on a private aircraft its callsign was "Executive One".

Uruguay

Main article: Presidential air transport of Uruguay

The President of Uruguay, Tabare Vazquez, uses an Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia, operated by the Uruguayan Air Force for flights within South America or a chartered Pluna Boeing 767 for long-distance flights.

Vatican

President George W. Bush walks the red carpet with Pope Benedict XVI. Behind is "Shepherd One" the plane that transported the Pope.

Typically, the Pope flies on a chartered Alitalia fixed wing aircraft when travelling to or from more distant destinations. The tradition is for the Pope to fly to the country he is visiting on a chartered Alitalia jet and to return on a jet belonging to a flag carrier from the visited nation. But when touring multiple nations this could turn odd. For example, when Pope John Paul II visited South America in May 1988, he came to Paraguay from Peru in an AeroPerú DC-8, but left Asunción International Airport back to Europe in a transcontinental Alitalia Boeing 747, which was brought-in just hours before his farewell ceremony. Líneas Aéreas Paraguayas' longest-range aircraft at the time were Boeing 707-320Bs, which had to stop in Dakar to refuel. However, he politely traveled within the country in a LAP jet, which incidentally carried the distinguished visitor's coat of arms in the forward fuselage as courtesy. Inspired by both a biblical verse and the name of the aircraft used by the President of the United States, the Americans nicknamed the Pope's aircraft "Shepherd One" after Pope Benedict XVI's visit to New York and Washington in 2008. The call sign of a papal flight within Italy is "volo papale" ("papal flight" in Italian) followed by the number of flights the pope has made. Pope John Paul II made 104 papal flights. Pope Benedict XVI returned to Rome from Brazil on Alitalia. The pope also uses a helicopter of the Italian Navy (Marina Militare) for small distances like to Castel Gandolfo vice versa.

Venezuela

An Airbus A319CJ serves as the presidential transport for President of Venezuela Hugo Chávez.

Vietnam

A Boeing 777-200ER (VN-A141) chartered from Vietnam Airlines is often used for international and long haul flights. For domestic and short haul flights, an Airbus 321 is chartered from Vietnam Airlines.

Yugoslavia (former)

Former Yugoslav president Josip Broz Tito used many aircraft during his term as president. The most notable aircraft types in service were the Douglas DC-6, Ilyushin Il-18, Sud Aviation Caravelle and Boeing 727.

Zaire

Perhaps one of the most controversial air transports for a head of state was that of Zaire leader Mobutu Sese Seko, who leased a supersonic Concorde in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The jet, obtained from Air France, was based at Gbadolite and was not only used for diplomatic missions but also for European shopping trips for the ruler's wealthy family. There was also a Boeing 707 (registration number 9T-MSS) that was used for a while and has been stored in Lisbon since 1996, as well as a Boeing 727 (9Q-RDZ).

Zambia

First Zambian president, Kenneth Kaunda used to use a McDonnel Douglas DC-8-71 of the now liquidated Zambia Airways among other national carriers. His departure from office saw the new president, Fredrick Chiluba acquire a more modern look for government and thus the VIP Challenger 604 "ZS-OSG (cn5486)"

See also

• Official state car
• State visit
• Royal Train
• Royal Yacht

External links

Media related to Aircraft of heads of state and government at Wikimedia Commons

References

• Von Hardesty. Air Force One: The Aircraft that Shaped the Modern Presidency. Creative Publishing international; illustrated edition edition (September 1, 2005) . ISBN 978-1589232334.