Boeing C-32a “Air Force Two”

Boeing C-32a “Air Force Two”

The Boeing C-32a is the military version of the Boeing 757-200 airliner. It usually flies under the call sign “Air Force Two” carrying the Vice President. It also carries the First Lady and the Secretary of State. On some rare occasions, it will fly members of the U.S. Cabinet and Congressional leaders. 

Being a mid-sized airliner, the C-32a will also fly the President when the destination airport will not accommodate the larger VC-25a (747 Jumbo Jet) aircraft and the small jets will not do. This would be when President’s staff and the press need to go along on the trip. When the President is on board, the C-32a will become “Air Force One”.

There are fourBoeing C-32a aircraft within the 89th Airlift Wing. They were put into service in 1998. They are based on the Boeing 757 and are arrange to sit 45 passengers. These airplanes are also equipped with military avionics. Their wingspan is 124 feet wide and 155 feet long with a maximum speed of 605 mph.

You may have noticed that these Boeing C-32a “Air Force Two” aircraft do not have the same paint scheme as the larger Boeing VC-25a aircraft with their ” Air Force One” paint schemes. What they wear is called the “VIP” paint scheme rather than the full “Raymond Lowey Air Force One” paint scheme that is on the VC-25a airplanes. It is easier to apply and maintain and lets the larger VC-25a airplanes be distinctive with their “Air Force One” Presidential appearance. 

I’ve always wondered what people think when the President shows up in The Boeing C-32a instead of the much larger VC-25a Jumbo Jet? They are probably thinking something like, “It sure looks bigger on TV”!