A Historical Tour of SAM 26000 and Its Presidential Passengers

In 1998, upon its retirement, Vice President Al Gore described the SAM 26000 Air Force One plane as if history itself had wings. This aircraft held a special significance. It was the first jet specifically designed and built for US presidents.

The SAM 26000, a Boeing VC-137C, served eight presidents between 1962 and 1998, from John F. Kennedy to Bill Clinton. After 13,000 flying hours over 36 years, the plane was retired to the National Museum of the US Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, where it is now on display. The plane was completed in 1962 for President John F. Kennedy.

The Boeing VC-137C was a customized version of a civilian 707-320B airliner, powered by four Pratt & Whitney TF33 engines. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy selected the blue and white paint scheme, working with industrial designer Raymond Loewy. The aircraft also bore the words "United States of America," emphasizing its role as the president's plane.

The SAM 26000 played a role in a tragic moment in American history, transporting President Kennedy's body after his assassination in 1963. President Lyndon Johnson was sworn in as president aboard the plane shortly after Kennedy's death. Visitors can now board the plane via a staircase, experiencing the same access as US presidents. The aircraft is located in the museum's William E. Boeing Presidential Gallery, alongside other presidential planes.

a pilot, copilot, navigator, and flight engineer. The navigator and flight engineer roles were later replaced by technology. Two phones were located behind the flight deck, with a plaque indicating that calls were subject to monitoring. An equipment storage space contained a first aid kit and firearms.

The plane also featured a secure communication center, allowing presidents to make calls worldwide. Meals were prepared in the galley, and the seating area could accommodate up to 40 passengers. Fox decals above the seats were a nod to the 89th Airlift Wing, which operates Air Force One.

The presidential stateroom was located down a long hallway. In 1969, Nixon redesigned Air Force One and moved the presidential quarters over the wings. The stateroom included two phones. A conference room provided additional meeting space, and an office area featured an electric typewriter, scanner, and more phones.

President Johnson was sworn in as president in the cabin after Kennedy's assassination. Kennedy was assassinated on November 22, 1963, and Johnson took the oath of office on the plane. The four seats toward the back of the plane were removed to make room for Kennedy's coffin. Air Force security personnel operated from the back of the aircraft.

The tour concluded at the back of the plane, with a view of its call sign and an American flag. Air Force One remains a symbol of US power. Like other presidential transportation, it represents the United States and its leader.