Y4201

Presidential Aircraft

Air Force One

Summer 2024 Mail Sale Commentary 

Lot 35 Y4201 — $4.60 Priority Mail — Air Force One and Z4201 — $16.25 Express Mail — Marine,One. This is a two-cover high-value lot — 6-13-07

The presidential air transport fleet consists of two highly customized Boeing 747-200B series aircraft, which carry the tail numbers 28000 and 29000. When the president is aboard either aircraft (or any Air Force aircraft), the radio call sign is "Air Force One" which is one of the most recognizable symbols of the presidency. Emblazoned with the words "United States of America," the American flag, and the Seal of the President of the United States, it is an undeniable presence wherever it flies. Capable of refueling midair, Air Force One has unlimited range and can carry the President wherever he or she needs to travel. Inside, the President and his or her travel companions enjoy 4,000 square feet of floor space on three levels, including an extensive suite for the President that features a large office, lavatory, and conference room. Air Force One includes a medical suite that can function as an operating room, and a doctor is permanently on board. The plane's two food preparation galleys can feed 100 people at a time. Air Force One also has quarters for those who accompany the President. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy became the first President to fly in a jet specifically built for presidential use — a modified Boeing 707. Over the years, several other jet aircraft have been used, with the first of the current aircraft being delivered in 1990 during the administration of President George H.W. Bush.

Marine One is the call sign for any Marine Corps aircraft carrying the President. It usually denotes a helicopter operated by Marine Squadron One "Nighthawks." The first use of a helicopter to transport the President was in 1957 for President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Not long after helicopters for presidential transport were introduced, presidential aides asked the Marine Corp to investigate using the White House South Lawn for landing. There was ample room, and the protocol was established. The current models can fly more than 150 miles per hour and feature ballistic armor and antimissile countermeasures. As a security measure, Marine One often flies in a group of as many as five identical helicopters.