Mon, Apr 01, 2013
Obama Administration Says New Design Sensitive To Complaints About Government Spending
ANN April 1 Special Coverage
Saying the President is acutely aware of the negative reactions to comments about no tax breaks for those who can afford business jets as struggles over a new budget continue, the Obama Administration has announced plans to develop a new, economical, dual purpose Air Force One. Since 1990, the presidential fleet has consisted of two Boeing VC-25s – specifically configured, highly customized Boeing 747-200B series aircraft. The Air Force has been looking into replacing the two VC-25 aircraft with three replacement aircraft beginning in 2017. Officials in the administration, who agreed to speak on the condition of anonymity, told ANN that Boeing and Terrafugia will team up to develop the new Presidential plane.
At the heart of the issue is the administration's desire to be seen as doing its part in these difficult economic times. Now, when the President travels, not only does Air Force One make the journey, but supply aircraft precede the President to deliver the Presidential Limo and a fleet of supporting vehicles.
The administration believes that it can significantly cut costs if Air Force One could be a dual purpose vehicle, providing transportation in the air and on the ground. The new Air Force One will take advantage of Boeing's years of experience in building commercial jet aircraft with Terrafugia's futuristic design concepts for the long dreamed of flying car. Early design work features seating for 7 adults, so it's more of a flying SUV than car.
Of course with such limited seating there will not be room for the usual entourage of media who accompany the President but administration officials say that's just one of many "tough choices" that will have to be made to reach the President's goals as the government "transitions" to the new aircraft.
More News
Runway Lead-in Light System Runway Lead-in Light System Consists of one or more series of flashing lights installed at or near ground level that provides positive visual guidance a>[...]
Aero Linx: Aviation Without Borders Aviation Without Borders uses its aviation expertise, contacts and partnerships to enable support for children and their families – at hom>[...]
Dave Juwel's Aviation Marketing Stories ITBOA BNITBOB ... what does that mean? It's not gibberish, it's a lengthy acronym for "In The Business Of Aviation ... But Not In The Busine>[...]
From 2010 (YouTube Version): Yeah.... This IS A Really Cool Job When ANN's Nathan Cremisino took over the lead of our Aero-TV teams, he knew he was in for some extra work and a lot>[...]
Also: Junkers A50 Heritage, Montaer Grows, Dynon-Advance Flight Systems, Vans' Latest Officially, the Carbon Cub UL and Rotax 916 iS is now in its 'market survey development phase'>[...]