Who is the Pilot for Air Force One?
Air Force One is the official aircraft used by the President of the United States for official trips and communications. But have you ever wondered who flies this powerful and sophisticated aircraft? The pilot for Air Force One is a highly trained and skilled member of the United States Air Force (USAF).
Contents
A Brief History of Air Force One
The concept of Air Force One dates back to the early 1940s, when the US Air Force began flying the president’s plane for official events. The aircraft was called the "Fleet 5" at the time and was operated by a small team of pilots from the 86th Flight Squadron. Since then, Air Force One has become a symbol of American strength and leadership, with several different aircraft serving as the official presidential jet over the years.
Pilots’ Qualifications
To become a pilot for Air Force One, candidates must undergo rigorous training and meet certain qualifications. These include:
• Top Secret clearance: Pilots must hold a Top Secret security clearance, which is the highest level of clearance granted by the US government.
• 500 hours of flying experience: Pilots must have at least 500 hours of flight experience in high-performance jet aircraft.
• Pilot selection course: Candidates must complete a rigorous selection course at the USAF’s Test Pilot School in Edwards, California.
• Physical fitness: Pilots must be in excellent physical condition, with passing scores in the USAF’s annual Physical Fitness Test.
The 89th Airlift Wing and Air Force One Operations
Air Force One is operated by the 89th Airlift Wing (89 AW) at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. The wing is responsible for providing global airlift to the US President, First Lady, Vice President, and foreign dignitaries. The 89 AW also provides air traffic control and communications services to support the Air Force One mission.
Pilots’ Rotations
Air Force One pilots typically rotate every few years, allowing them to stay current and refreshed on new aircraft systems and protocols. On average, a pilot for Air Force One will spend around 3-5 years on the aircraft, with some staying on for up to 7 years. During this time, pilots will complete around 10-15 international trips and fly upwards of 10,000 miles.
Safety Protocols
Air Force One pilots must adhere to strict safety protocols, which include:
• Emergency procedure training: Pilots receive extensive training on emergency procedures, such as hijacking, terrorist threats, and medical emergencies.
• Regular inspections: The aircraft is inspected daily, and pilots are required to conduct walk-arounds to ensure everything is in order.
• Weather planning: Pilots must always plan their flights around severe weather, avoiding thunderstorms and strong winds whenever possible.
Contingency Planning
In the unlikely event of a crisis or emergency, the Air Force has a strict contingency plan in place to ensure the President’s safety. This includes maintaining multiple aircraft ready to scramble at a moment’s notice, as well as training teams of response personnel in crisis management.
Air Force One Maintenance
Maintaining Air Force One requires a team of highly skilled technicians and engineers. The aircraft undergoes regular maintenance, including:
| Maintenance | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Daily walk-arounds | Daily |
| 50-hour check | Every 50 hours of flight time |
| 100-hour check | Every 100 hours of flight time |
| Heavy maintenance | Quarterly |
Conclusion
Air Force One pilots are the unsung heroes of American aviation. With years of training, experience, and skill, they play a vital role in keeping the President safe and secure, both on and off American soil. As the iconic symbol of American leadership and strength, Air Force One pilots stand at the forefront of ensuring the continuity of government in the face of crisis and adversity. Their expertise and dedication make them truly among the most elite aviators in the world.
