What Flies in Air Force Two for Short?
Air Force Two is the call sign used by the United States Vice President when traveling via a military aircraft. However, the aircraft that usually flies the Vice President may not always be a clear-cut answer to the question "What flies in air force 2 for short?" The answer depends on various factors, including the Vice President’s needs, the mission requirements, and the availability of aircraft.
What is Air Force Two?
Air Force Two is not a specific aircraft, but rather the designation given to the United States Air Force plane used to transport the Vice President of the United States. The aircraft is usually modified to meet the needs of the Vice President and other high-ranking government officials, including the First Lady.
What Flies as Air Force Two for Short?
When the Vice President travels, the primary aircraft used is typically the Boeing C-32 or the Boeing C-40 Clipper. The C-32 is a modified Boeing 757 airliner, while the C-40 is a modified Boeing 737 airliner. Both aircraft are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the Vice President and other government officials.
C-32A: The Primary Aircraft of Air Force Two
The C-32A is the primary aircraft used as Air Force Two, and it is capable of carrying up to 74 passengers. The C-32A is equipped with amenities such as:
- Presidential suite with a bedroom and bathroom
- Conference and meeting rooms
- Kitchens and dining areas
- Communication equipment, including satellite phones and internet connections
- Medical facilities, including a doctor’s office and medical bay
C-40B: Secondary Aircraft of Air Force Two
The C-40B is used as a secondary aircraft, and it is capable of carrying up to 88 passengers. The C-40B is equipped with similar amenities as the C-32A, although it may not have as many luxurious features.
Other Aircraft Used as Air Force Two
While the C-32A and C-40B are the primary aircraft used as Air Force Two, there are other aircraft that have been used in the past. These include:
- C-17 Globemaster III: The C-17 is a large military transport aircraft that has been used as a backup aircraft for Air Force Two.
- Air Force One: While the President’s aircraft is also known as Air Force One, the term has sometimes been used to refer to the Vice President’s aircraft as well.
- Army One: The Army uses the term "Army One" to refer to their aircraft, which are usually used to transport high-ranking military officials.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the answer to the question "What flies in Air Force Two for short?" is not a single answer, but rather depends on various factors. The Boeing C-32 and Boeing C-40 Clipper are the primary aircraft used as Air Force Two, with the C-32A being the more luxurious of the two. Other aircraft may be used as backup or in emergency situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is responsible for the security of Air Force Two?
- The United States Air Force Security Forces are responsible for the security of Air Force Two.
- Can anyone fly Air Force Two?
- No, only authorized personnel are permitted to fly Air Force Two.
- How many people can Air Force Two carry?
- The Boeing C-32A can carry up to 74 passengers, while the C-40B can carry up to 88 passengers.
Table: Comparing the C-32A and C-40B
| Feature | Boeing C-32A | Boeing C-40B |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 159.94 ft (48.80 m) | 113.71 ft (34.63 m) |
| Wingspan | 138.13 ft (42.08 m) | 93.64 ft (28.62 m) |
| Seating Capacity | 74 passengers | 88 passengers |
| Range | 6,500 nmi (12,000 km) | 4,500 nmi (8,300 km) |
Bullets List: Key Features of Air Force Two
- Presidential suite with a bedroom and bathroom
- Conference and meeting rooms
- Kitchens and dining areas
- Communication equipment, including satellite phones and internet connections
- Medical facilities, including a doctor’s office and medical bay
- Secure communication systems and encryption
- Secure in-flight internet and data services
- Advanced avionics and navigation systems
