You are on page 1of 16

Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 1 of 16

Air transports of heads of state and government


From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Some nations maintain one or more special aircraft to transport their heads of state and government. One in particular has
been immortalised in popular culture: Air Force One, used by the President of the United States and operated by the United
States Air Force.

Contents: A B C D E F G I J K M N O P R S T U V Z –Notes

Argentina
The Agrupación Aérea Presidencial (Spanish for Presidential Air Group) is the Head of State Air Transport Unit of
Argentina. A Boeing 757 is currently the Tango 01, or presidential transport. Two Fokker F28 aircraft are known as the
Tango 02 and the Tango 03. Also a Sikorsky S-76 and a Learjet 55 for VIP transport.

Australia
See also: Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft

No. 34 Squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force operates the current VIP fleet of two
737 Boeing Business Jets and three Challenger 604s for use by Australian officials; in
particular the Governor-General, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs. The
aircraft are regularly used for both domestic and international travel and are also made
available to the Australian Royal Family when they visit Australia.

The two BBJs were acquired on a 13 year lease in 2002 and are fitted with facilities such
as conference tables, offices suites and secure satellite and communication capabilities.
The two planes also have a longer range than is standard for 737 BBJs. Both the BBJs and A RAAF Boeing 737 BBJ
Challengers are based at Defence Establishment Fairbairn in Canberra and are maintained
by Qantas Defence Services.

Bangladesh
The President, Prime Minister or the head of the government travel on a specially reserved Biman Bangladesh Airlines
aircraft. For long distance flights or flights with an especially large entourage, usually a DC-10 aircraft is used, whereas for
medium to short distance flights an Airbus A310 aircraft is used. In many cases, two Biman aircraft are reserved for
government flights, one as a standby aircraft.

Bahrain
The Bahrain Royal Flight operates a Boeing 747-400 and Boeing 747SP for use by the
King of Bahrain.

Belarus

Bahrain Royal Flight Boeing


747SP

The airline Belavia operates a Boeing Business Jet (Registered EW-001PA), and a
Tupolev Tu-154M on behalf of the government for use of the President and Prime
Minister.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 2 of 16

The plane, instead of being painted sky blue as normal Belavia planes, it is painted in red
and green. These colors are derived from the national flag. The Russian and Belarusian
name of the country, " ," appears near the door on both sides in red. On the tail-
fin of the plane, the national emblem appears in full color.

Botswana
The Botswana Defence Force operates a Gulfstream IV as a VIP transport. Boeing 737-800BBJ operated
by Belavia on behalf of the
Government of Belarus.
Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, Aviodetachment-28 of the Bulgarian Air Force operates a Tupolev Tu-154, Dassault Falcon 2000, and a Mil
Mi-8 helicopter for use by the President and Prime Minister and other government officials.

Brazil
The main Presidential aircraft used by the Brazilian Government is a modified Airbus
A319, designated by the Brazilian Air Force as VC-1A. The VC-1A is used for
transporting the President on international medium and long-range travel. For short-range
flights the President is transported in one of the two modified Embraer 195 presidential
jets. When an aircraft is transporting the President of Brazil it uses the callsign Força
Aérea Uno (Brazilian Air Force One), ICAO code BRS01.

The Special Transport Group (GTE) of the Brazilian Air Force is responsible for
transporting the President, the Vice-President and senior ministers of the Brazilian
Government. The GTE comprises 22 aircraft: VC-1A, Brazilian Air Force
One
n A modified VIP-configured Airbus A319 (VC-1A) used on all international flights
carrying the President.
n Two modified VIP-configured Embraer 195 jets used on national and regional flights carrying the President.
n Two VIP-configured Eurocopter Super Puma (VH-34) presidential helicopters.
n Two VIP-configured Embraer ERJ-145 (VC-99C) aircraft.
n Ten Embraer ERJ-145 (C-99A) aircraft.
n Two Helibrás HB-355 Esquilo (VH-55) helicopters.
n Three Gates Learjet 35 (VU-35) jets.
n Two Lineage 1000 aircraft (order).

The fleet is headquartered at the Brasília Air Force Base (BABR).

Brunei
The Sultan of Brunei has several private planes in VIP configuration on which to travel internationally.

n Boeing B767-27G(ER) V8-MHB


n Boeing B747-430 V8-ALI
n Airbus A340-212 V8-BKH
n Gulfstream V V8-001
n Gulfstream V V8-007
n Gulfstream IV V8-SR1
n Sikorsky S-76+ V8-HB1
n Sikorsky S-76+ V8-HB2

Burkina Faso
The government of Burkina Faso uses a special Boeing 727

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 3 of 16

Canada
The Canadian Forces Air Command operates five Airbus A310-300s (CC-150 Polaris), flown by crews of 437 Transport
Squadron, based at CFB Trenton, one of which is configured for VIP transport, as well as four Bombardier Challenger 600
business jets (CC-144), operated by 412 Squadron in Ottawa. These planes are charged with flying members of the
Canadian Royal Family, Governor General of Canada, the Prime Minister of Canada, and other high ranking government
officials and foreign dignitaries. The CC-150 Polaris is primarily used for long distance trips while the CC-144 is used for
short distance trips.[1][2]

Chile
The transportation of the President was in charge of the formerly state-owned flag carrier Lan Airlines, providing a Boeing
707 or a Boeing 737-200.

Nowadays, the transportation is under the responsibility of the Chilean Air Force (Fuerza Aérea de Chile (FACh)), which
owns the following aircrafts:

n 1 Boeing 737-500
n 1 Beechcraft 200
n 1 Gulfstream IV
n 1 Boeing 767-300ER. Originally to be an Airbus A310 MRTT[3]. This aircraft was bought to replace the Boeing 737
in transcontinental flights. Until 2009, is the only VIP FACh aircraft which uses the standard chilean military livery,
condidering its multiporpouse as VIP and freight transporter.

Formerly, FACh used an Boeing 707-320C which is still in service for military purposes.

People's Republic of China


Air transportation for the President or government officials of the People's Republic of China is operated by Air China, the
national carrier. A specific Boeing 747-400 is usually used for long distance trips, a Boeing 767 is used for mid-haul trips,
and a Boeing 737-800 is used for short distance trips.

A Boeing 767 was purchased by the Chinese government for use by President Jiang Zemin in 2000. This Boeing 767 was
originally ordered by Delta Air Lines. An international incident occurred in 2001 when the government claimed it had
discovered 27 bugs embedded in the aircraft's interior; the plane had been refitted in San Antonio, Texas and now operates
as a normal civil airliner of Air China.

Republic of China
Air transportation for the President or other high-ranking officials of the Republic of China is operated by the Republic of
China Air Force using a customized Boeing 737-800 , registration #3701 delivered from Boeing in 2001. This aircraft is
not usually permitted to fly to countries without diplomatic relations with the ROC. Instead, a Boeing 747 operated by
Taiwan's national airline, China Airlines, is used for long-haul trips by the President and his staff.

Colombia
In 1933 Colombia acquired its first presidential transport airplane, a Junkers Ju 52/3M, one of the most advanced aircraft of
that time. It served former Colombian president Enrique Olaya Herrera until its retirement from service in 1950. From 1953
to 1972 a Douglas C-54 Skymaster, served as presidential airplane during the dictatorship of Gustavo Rojas Pinilla.

In 1972 a new Fokker F28 1000 model became the presidential airplane during the mandate of Misael Pastrana Borrero.
This aircraft is notorious because during Ernesto Samper Pizano's presidency, in September 22, 1996, three kilograms of
heroin were found hidden inside the plane, hours before departing to New York City, where President Samper would
address to the United Nations General Assembly. The incident was grave because the United States had canceled Samper's
visa for having alleged connections to drug barons who financed his political campaign. Finally, Samper travelled to the
United States with a diplomatic visa and in a rented plane.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 4 of 16

In 2005, the new president Álvaro Uribe Vélez urged Congress to purchase a new aircraft due to safety and environmental
concerns. After 33 years of service the airplane was almost obsolete and very noisy. In many occasions the plane nearly
collided while transporting the president. Colombians nicknamed it the Presidential Coffee Pot. The aircraft was penalized
more than once for violating decibel airport standards and sometimes even prohibited from landing also due to
environmental contamination.

Eventually, the Fokker was retired from service and in July 2005, Colombia acquired a Boeing 737-700 BBJ for
presidential transport. Its code name is FAC 0001 or Fuerza Aerea Colombiana 0001 (Colombian Air Force 0001).

Côte d'Ivoire
The Ivorian government uses a Gulfstream IV (Registered TU-VAF) as a VIP aircraft.

Cuba
Cuba, as one of the few comunist countries left, the goverment owns every thing, that includes all the planes of all national
airlines. They are use but only for secundly goverment purpose. The folowing fleet is the most comundly use:

2-Ilyushin Il-96 widebody for long and international destinations

1-Ilyushin Il-62 long range for goverment officials

3-Yak-40 for short range and unpaved runways

Croatia
The Government Agency is responsible for transporting of the Croatian President, the Prime Minister and other Croatian
government officials. It operates a Challenger CL-604.

Czech Republic
The Czech Air Force operates two Airbus A319(A319-115X(CJ)), a Bombardier Challenger 600, two Tupolev Tu-154, two
Yakovlev Yak-40 airplanes and Mil Mi-8 helicopters for VIP transport, primarily that of the President, Prime Minister, and
members of Government and Parliament of the Czech Republic.

Democratic People's Republic of Korea


The North Korean Government has access to all of the Air Koryo fleet for official services. Kim Jong Il however does not
have his own plane due to his fear of flying. The main aircraft that are used from Air Koryo's fleet are the Tupolev Tu-134
and Ilyushin Il-62M

Denmark
The Royal Danish Air Force operates three Challenger CL-604 for VIP transport, primarily that of the government and The
Danish Royal Family. These airplanes are also used for environmental control and fishery control around Greenland and
the North Sea. Further more the Danish Royal Family have one AgustaWestland EH101 Merlin at their disposal. Ministers
do also fly on commercial airlines such as Scandinavian Airlines.

Ecuador
Ecuador currently uses a Embraer Legacy 600 (FAE-739) and a Rockwell Sabreliner 40D (FAE-047) for presidential
transport. Aircraft from the flag-carrier airline TAME's fleet, including Boeing 727s, Fokker F28s, and Embraer E-Jets can
also be drafted for government use. The Plane used for long haul transport is a Airbus A320 operated by TAME

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 5 of 16

Egypt
The Egyptian government operates an Airbus A340-200 (Registered SU-GGG) as a VIP transport. The first presidential
Airplane in Egypt was given as a gift from Saudi Arabia to Egyptian President Sadat. Before that, the President of Egypt,
Gamal Abdel Nasser, traveled using a rented airplane from the National Egyptian Air company, Egypt Air. In 1955, and
during his trip to attend the first Asian-African Conference in Bandung, Indonesia, president Nasser and his accompanying
crew used a rental plane from the Indian National Air company.

El Salvador
El Salvador's president Tony Saca currently uses a deluxe version of the Bell 412 helicopter for local flights. He also has
military planes, helicopters and a presidential turboprop for his use. For international flights, a Beechjet 400A, N717TG, is
used from its base at Illopango Airport.

France
The Escadron de transport, d'entraînement et de calibrage 00.065 (ETEC 65, "Transportation, training and calibration
squadron") is the unit of the French Air Force, under direct command of the Minister of Defence, in charge of the
transportation of the President, the Prime Minister and other French government officials.

The ETEC operates 4 Dassault Falcon 50 (F-RAFI, F-RAFJ, F-RAFK and F-RAFL), 2 Dassault Falcon 900 (F-RAFP and
F-RAFQ) and 2 Airbus A319 CJ (F-RBFA and F-RBFB). Additionally, the unit operates three VIP-configured Super Puma
helicopters (F-RAFU, F-RAFY and F-RAFZ).

French officials also use the planes of the Escadron de transport 3/60 Esterel, which operates 3 Airbus A310-300 (F-
RADA, F-RADB and F-RADC) and 2 Airbus A340-200 (F-RAJA and F-RAJB). In June 2008, the French ministry of
Defence announced the order of 2 Airbus A330-200 series (previously exploited by Air Caraibes and Swissair) to replace
the Airbus 319 CJ for the transport of the President of France. Furthermore a complete overhaul of the fleet is underway.

Air France chartered flights are also used by French officials, most notably Concorde when it was still in service with that
airline.

Gambia
Gambia uses an Il-62 for their VIP flights.

Germany

The president of the Gambia


has been using Ilyushin Il-62
since August 2005.

Germany's senior government officials use two Airbus 310-304 aircraft, previously of
East Germany's Interflug, redesigned as Airbus 310 VIP by Lufthansa Technik for
medium and long distance travel. The airplanes are named after Konrad Adenauer
(10+21), after the first chancellor of (West) Germany, and Theodor Heuss (10+22), after
Germany's first President.

Additionally, the German air force's Special Air Mission Wing Federal Ministry of
Defence (Flugbereitschaft) operates six Challenger 601 jets (registration code
12+02/12+07) and three Eurocopter Cougar AS532 helicopters to handle the Germany's Airbus A310-304
transportation needs of representatives of the German Government, Parliament and VIP 10+22 Theodor Heuss
Military.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 6 of 16

In October 2007 it was announced that the six Challenger would be replaced by two Airbus A 319CJ and four Bombardier
Global 5000. In March 2008, the Ministry of Defense announced the intent to buy two used Airbus A340-300 passenger
planes from Lufthansa as a replacement for the aging Airbus A310 jets. They will be converted to VIP planes by Lufthansa
Technik. The acquisition and conversion of these A340 planes were approved by the German parliarment on 2008-03-12.
[4]

Greece
Greece's prime minister has a Gulfstream V at his disposal, which is under the operational command of the Hellenic Air
Force. The airplane was bought by the government of Costas Simitis for the needs of Greece's 2003 EU presidency and the
preparations of the 2004 Olympic Games. The VIP transport squadron of the Hellenic Air Force operates also two Embraer
business jets. For long haul flights the Primeminister and other officials use one of the Airbus A340-300x's from the
government owned Olympic Airlines. The A340 aircraft were used for the official visit of the Greek Prime minister to
Australia in 2007.

Two other aircraft used over the last two decades for the same purpose raised controversy. A Dassault Falcon 900, had a
range of technical problems culminating to an accident that cost the life of the deputy minister of foreign affairs Giannos
Kranidiotis and five other persons due to severe in-flight pitch oscillations 20 minutes before landing at Bucharest on
September 9, 1999.[5] Falcon's problems prompted in 1992 the government of Constantine Mitsotakis to replace it with a
refitted Boeing 727 amid charges of extravagant costs. The next government of Andreas Papandreou duly converted the
Boeing 727 into a charter plane in 1994.

Iraq
The government of Iraq uses a Boeing 767-200. Previously, they used an ex Air Canada aircraft. Recently Mahan Air of
Iran donated an Airbus A300B4-600 aircraft which is now used on government flights.

India
Air India One (AI-001) is the call-sign of any aircraft with the Prime Minister of India or
the President of India on-board. This plane is also known as VIP-1 or Tanjore.[6] Since
2003, a Boeing 747-437B, equipped with jamming equipment, anti-missile systems and
air-to-air refueling facility, has been used as Air India One.[7]

The Government of India uses Air India and Indian Airlines aircraft for the overseas
transportation of its officials. Other Union Cabinet ministers and government officials
may travel in AI-001 with the Prime Minister's consent. For domestic travel, the Prime
Minister and the President use an Indian Air Force Boeing 737-200 (also known as T-43).
Air India One, the official
In 2008, the Indian Air Force inducted 3 Boeing Business Jets which will be used by aircraft of the President of
VVIP Government officials. These aircraft have a range of 3,000 to 4,000 nautical miles India.
and are fitted with encrypted satellite communication facilities and advanced navigation
aids. The jets are also equipped with an advanced missile warning system, a missile
deflecting shield and electronic counter measures so as to provide protection from any ground-based or air-borne threats.[8]

Indonesia
The President of Indonesia and the Vice President uses a chartered Garuda Indonesia Airbus A330-300 for most overseas
trip and state visits. The Indonesian Air Force also maintains a special VIP squadron for the President, Vice President and
Government Ministers which is the 17th Air Squadron (Indonesian: Skadron Udara 17) consisting of Boeing 737-200, C-
130 Hercules, Fokker F27-400, Fokker F28-1000, RJ-85 and Super Puma (AS 332L-1) helicopters. All aircraft and
helicopters of the 17th Air Squadron are based in Halim Perdanakusuma Airforce Base, Jakarta. All presidential flights
depart from Halim Perdanakusuma AFB.

Ireland (Republic of Ireland)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 7 of 16

The Irish Ministerial Air Transport Squadron (MATS) (part of the Irish Air Corps) provide secure transport to the President
of Ireland, the Taoiseach (prime minister), the Tánaiste (the deputy prime minister), and members of the government and
their staff, both within and outside the Republic of Ireland.

The aircraft involved in carrying Irish members of state include a Beechcraft Super King Air, Gulfstream IV, and Learjet
45. International flights are flown out by the Gulfstream IV, and during 2004 the Learjet 45 was introduced into MATS
service flying. A Beechcraft Super King Air is used when the Gulfstream IV or Learjet 45 are not available.

Italy
The Italian Air Force operates three Airbus Corporate Jets. One Airbus is equipped with 30 seats for use by the Prime
Minister or President, the other aircraft have 50 seats for use of government officials. Four smaller Dassault Falcon 50 and
five Dassault Falcon 900 are also used for government transport. Two Agusta SH-3D Sea Kings are operated for use by the
President and Government officials and are also used by the Pope. All aircraft and helicopters are operated by the 31st
Wing based in Rome Ciampino airport.

Japan
Japan maintains two Boeing 747-400 (20-1101 and 20-1102) aircraft mostly for the Prime
Minister, the Emperor, Empress and other members of the Imperial Family, operated by
the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The planes are officially called seifu-seny -ki (
, literally “Government Exclusive Aircraft”) in Japanese and Japanese Air Force
One/Two in English. They have been used to transport Japanese peace-keeping troops to
Iraq in the past, and are also designed to take Japanese nationals and refugees home from
foreign land in serious political turmoil, chaos after natural disasters, etc.
Japanese Air Force One at
Jordan Hunter Army Airfield

The King uses an Airbus A340-600 for transport.

The royal family members and government officials uses a Canadair CL-600-2B16 Challenger (JY-ONE and the JY-
TWO).

Kazakhstan
The Government of Kazakhstan uses a 767 and 757-200 for transport.

Kenya
Kenya's president has a Fokker 70 for use as the presidential jet.

Fokker executive plane was purchased at a cost of $50 million. The 70-seater jet was reconfigured into a 28-seater, with
three suites, bathroom and kitchen. It is equipped with the latest telecommunication facilities.

Prior to the purchase of the Fokker, the Kenyan President primarily used Kenya Airways for his international travel.

Kuwait
A Boeing 747-400 of Kuwait Airways is reserved for State use, but occasionally used for
schedule flights.

Luxembourg
LX-GDL, a private operated Cessna 550 Citation II and LX-ONE a private operated
Learjet 35 A are sometimes used for governmental flights.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 8 of 16

Madagascar Kuwait Airways' only Boeing


747-400M taxis to the take off
In December 2008, the Malagasy Government acquired a Boeing 737-700 Business Jet for point at London Heathrow
$60 million for the President of Madagascar, to the dismay of the country and IMF. The Airport
acquisition created inquiries by the IMF and World Bank as to origin of the financing and
remains unanswered to date.

Mexico
Mexico's President uses mainly a Boeing 757-225 ordered by President Miguel de la Madrid built in 1987 exclusively for
this purpose. The plane's official callsign when the president is inboard is TP-01, which stands for Transporte Presidencial
1 (Presidential Transport 1). When flying into airports with short runways, he uses either a Boeing 737-300 (TP-02) or a
Boeing 737-322 (TP-03). For short trips he uses a Super Puma VIP edition called TPH-01 which stands for Transporte
Presidencial Helicoptero 1 (Helicopter Presidential Transport 1). Before the 737's and the 757, two Boeing 727-100 were
used as presidential transport. The current presidential fleet as of 2008 is as follows:

Aircraft Registration Code Name


Boeing 757-225 XC-UJM TP-01
Boeing 737-300 XC-UJB TP-02
Boeing 737-322 XC-LJG TP-03
Gulfstream III XC-UJN TP-06
Gulfstream III XC-UJO TP-07
Learjet 35A XC-IPP TP-104
Turbocommander 69 5A XC-UTA TP-216
Super Puma AS332 XC-UHV TPH-01
Super Puma AS332 XC-UHU TPH-02
Super Puma AS332 XC-UHO TPH-03
Super Puma AS332 XC-UHM TPH-05
Super Puma AS332 XC-UHP TPH-06
Puma SA330 XC-UHC TPH-08
Puma SA330 XC-UHA TPH-09

Malaysia
Malaysia's Prime Minister and the Royal Family travel in a Boeing Business Jet operated by the Royal Malaysian Air Force
with the serial number M53-01.The callsign of the plane is Perdana One (for the Prime Minister) or DiRaja One (if the
King is aboard). The BBJ was purchased in 2003 from Malaysia Airlines who operated it with the registration number 9M-
BBJ.[9] Recently, They started to fly an Airbus A319 registered as 9M-NAA with callsign M1

Moldova
The airline Air Moldova operates a Yakovlev Yak-40 on behalf of the Moldovan Government, for use of the President and
Prime Minister.

Mongolia
The Mongolian President and Prime Minister with other Parliament members use an Airbus A310-300 (registered JU-
1010) or Boeing 737-800 (registered EI-CXV) for short to medium range from Government owned Mongolian Airlines. In
domestic routes head of Mongolia and other government officials use Saab 340B or Fokker 50 chartered from Eznis
Airways and Aero Mongolia.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 9 of 16

Montenegro
The Government of Montenegro operates one Learjet 45 (N888CX) for VIP transport.

Namibia
The Namibian government uses a Dassault Falcon 900 (registered V5-NAM) for VIP transport.

Netherlands
The Netherlands government operates a Fokker 70 (F28-0070) as a means of transport for
the Dutch Royal family and government officials, such as the prime minister and other
ministers. It is used to attend international conferences, but also for private trips by the
Queen and the Prince Royal. The registration is PH-KBX; PH for the Netherlands and
KBX for 'Koningin BeatriX' or 'Queen Beatrix'. The previous aircraft, a Fokker F28, was
registered PH-PBX, with PBX for 'Princess BeatriX'. The aircraft is maintained by KLM
Cityhopper. Furthermore, a Gulfstream IV of the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF)
with registration code V-11 is available as well.
PH-KBX (Etienne Jong)

New Zealand
The Royal New Zealand Airforce maintain 2 Boeing 757-200 which are occasionally used
to transport the Prime Minister, various government officials as well as the head of state
and members of the Royal Family when on New Zealand business. As multi-role aircraft
they are more often used as transport aircraft for troops or freight. Generally the Prime
Minister and government officials use commercial or chartered flights (with Air New
Zealand where available) to travel both domestically and internationally.

Nigeria
Royal New Zealand Air Force
Boeing 757-200 at Kemble
Airfield, Gloucestershire,
England, for an air display.

The Nigerian Air Force currently maintains a Boeing Business Jet (737) as a means of
transport for the President of Nigeria. The plane is marked NAF-001. The national colors
of the Nigerian Flag (Green, White, Green), are painted in long horizontal stripes along
the base of the white fuselage, the words "NIGERIAN AIR FORCE" are tagged on the
top, and the Seal of the President of Nigeria is embossed on the tail. In addition, there are
a Gulfstream V, a Gulfstream IVSP, and two Falcon 900s. One of the Falcon 900s and a
BAe 800 were commandered from the national oil company and the central bank Nigerian Presidential Jet
respectively, by the former military government. But the BAe 800 and a Cessna Citattion
Bravo were orded to be returned to the Air Force for military use by President Yar'Adua
in Jan, 2009.

Norway
The air transport of the King and Prime Minister of Norway is mostly handled by commercial airliners (such as
Scandinavian Airlines) with the VIPs travelling as normal passengers. However the Norwegian government will charter
small private jets for government ministers when needed. The Royal Norwegian Air Force 717 Squadron at Rygge Air
Station also maintain one Dassault Falcon 20 (5-9 passengers) for VIP-transport of the royal family, ministers and armed
forces senior staff.

Oman
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 10 of 16

The Oman Royal Flight operates a Boeing 747-400, Boeing 747SP, two Gulfstream IVs and an Airbus A320. These are
used by the Sultan of Oman and members of his government.

Pakistan
Pakistan Government Transport, the government carrier, currently operates an Airbus A310 and one new Gulfstream
Aerospace G-IV Gulfstream IV-SP to transport government officials for the President and Prime Minister's use. The plane
is commonly called "PAK ONE", the callsign under which it operates. The government also used Boeing 747 in the past
from Pakistan International Airlines, the national flag carrier.

Before it came into service, Boeing 707s[10] had served as the primary presidential aircraft. President Muhammad Zia-ul-
haq used a LockheedC-130B [11] for his trips. Previous Prime Ministers Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto used a Boeing
737 [12] for their official trips. The airliner was maintained by Pakistan Government Transport. The Pakistan Air Force
plans to purchase a Gulfstream V for transportation of high-ranking government officials and foreign dignitaries. These
aircraft are based at Chaklala Airbase near the capital city of Islamabad.

PIA always transport the Presidents and Prime Ministers of Pakistan on overseas visits. During the late 1990s, Prime
Minister Sharif's govternment bought a Boeing 737-300[24] for official use. Initially it wore a government colour scheme,
and eventually a partial PIA 1990s livery was adopted as the aircraft was given to PIA for commercial use while it was not
on official duty.

However, when the government changed after a military coup in 1999, the Boeing B737 was transferred to PIA
permanently. The President and Prime Minister then resorted to using two of PIA's Airbus A310-300 for official visits,
while rare trips were done on regular commercial flights of the airline. In February 2007 the government of Qatar gifted
one of their VIP fleet A310[25] to the Pakistani government, this has ended the need for PIA planes.

A new executive jet has been acquired for use by President Pervez Musharraf, raising the number of aircraft in the VVIP
fleet to 14.The 10-seater Learjet is one of the three planes whose procurement was approved by former prime minister
Shaukat Aziz.

The country’s VVIP fleet includes G-IV, Cessna Citation V, Cessna Citation Excel, Learjet 35, Learjet 45 XR, Raytheon
Hawker 400, Falcon 20, Cessna Conquest II, Bell 412 helicopters (3) MI-17 helicopter Airbus A310-300 and now the new
LearJet .

Two other jets ordered may land in Pakistan after the elections. These jets are for personal use of president and prime
minister.

The value of the new luxury jet was about $60million. As Dawn Newspaper reported on 30/11/2007.

Peru
While a fleet of elderly DC-8s are maintained by the Peruvian Air Force, FAA repair station,"SEMAN" and Central
Purchasing , the official aircraft of the President of Peru used to be a Boeing 737-500. It was purchased under dubious
circumstances in 1995; then-president Alberto Fujimori's brother Santiago Fujimori was criminally charged for
'recommending' the multi-million dollar investment, which was seen as a frivolous purchase for a third-world country such
as Peru.

The aircraft sported the Flag of Peru on the vertical fin, a white fuselage with a black underbelly with red pinstripes, and
the words "República del Perú" adorning the front, with the Coat of Arms of Peru displayed on the side. Its Peruvian Air
Force designator was FAP 356.

The aircraft was sold by Alan García´s government, due to the bad reputation presidential trips had among the population.
[13]

Today, the President travels on commercial airlines.

The Philippines
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 11 of 16

The 250th (Presidential) Airlift Wing of the Philippine Air Force has the mandate of providing safe and efficient air
transport for the President of the Philippines and the First Family. On occasion, the wing has also been tasked to provide
transportation for other members of government, visiting heads of state, and other state guests.

The fleet includes: 1 Fokker F28, which is primarily used for the President's domestic trips, 4 Bell 412 helicopters, 3
Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, 2 Aérospatiale SA-330 Puma helicopters, 1 Sikorsky S-70-5 Black Hawk, a number of Bell UH-
1N Hueys, as well as Fokker F-27 Friendships. For trips outside of the Philippines, the Air Force employs a Bombardier
Learjet 60 or charters appropriate aircraft from Philippine Airlines.

Prior to 1962, the Air Force chartered aircraft from Pan American World Airways as the international services of
Philippine Airlines were suspended. For short-haul flights, Boeing 737s were initially used and have since been replaced by
the Airbus A320. For medium- to long-haul flights, Boeing 747-400s were initially used; their roles are now being fulfilled
by the Airbus A340-300. The aircraft with the callsign PR 001 is a special plane operated by Philippine Airlines to
transport the President of the Philippines.

A Presidential Helicopter Bell 412 crashed on April 7, 2009 at Ifugao Province North of Manila. On board were 8 people
including two cabinet undersecretaries and other military men. The flight is en route to Ifugao from Baguio City as an
advanced party of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo when Loakan Airport Tower lost communication with the aircraft
several minutes after take off.

Poland
The Polish Air Force maintains two modified TU-154s to transport the President (aircraft tail number 101) and Prime
Minister (102).Additionally a number of Yak-40s , PZL M28 Bryza and Mi-8 helicopters are used for domestic
transportation and bell 412.

Portugal
The Portuguese Air Force operates two Dassault Falcon 50 built in 1990 for use by the President of the Republic and the
Prime Minister, as well as cabinet members and other dignitaries when appropriate. Additionally, for similar use, the
Portuguese Air Force maintains three (but operates only one) Dassault Falcon 20 built in 1984.

Usually, for long range flights, Airbus A340 and Airbus A330 from TAP Portugal are used.

Romania
Romania operates one Boeing 707, YR-ABB, used by the President and one BAC 1-11, YR-BRE used mostly by the
Prime-Minister. Also a SA-365 Dauphin is used for internal transport. The operator of these flights is the Ministry of
National Defense owned Romavia.

Russian Federation
Russia State Transport Company operates two Ilyushin Il-96-300PU for use of the
President of Russia.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 12 of 16

At least one of the aircraft was refitted as a VIP transport in 2001 by a British company
for a price of GBP 10 million. As pictures leaked to the Internet in 2007 indicate, the
luxurious refit included gold-plated bathroom fittings, marble floors, silk-lined walls and
other expensive amenities.[14]

Mil Mi-8 VIP helicopters are also used for domestic air transport.

Saudi Arabia
Honor guard in front of
The Saudi Arabian Royal Flight operates a Boeing 747-300 (Registered HZ-HM1A), and Ilyushin Il-96 on Zagreb
a Boeing 747-400 for use by the King of Saudi Arabia. Airport, Croatia, during the
visit of the Russian president

Serbia
The Avio Service of Serbia is responsible for transporting of the Serbian President, the Prime Minister and other Serbian
government officials. It operates a Dassault Falcon 50 (YU-BNA) and a Learjet 31A (YU-BNZ). The government
sometimes also uses a Yak-40s aircraft of the Serbian Air Force.

Singapore
The President and Prime Minister of Singapore has been known to travel by a chartered aircraft, mostly a Boeing 777 from
Singapore Airlines. On short haul flights, for example around Southeast Asia, a Republic of Singapore Air Force Fokker 50
is used by the PM for travel.

Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has no presidential aircraft, however domestic travel for senior government officials and VIPs are provided by
the No. 4 (VIP) Helicopter Squadron of the Sri Lanka Air Force using 7 Bell 412EP.

Slovakia
The Slovak Government Flying Service operates two Tupolev Tu-154s, two Yakovlev Yak-40s and number of helicopters
for use by the President of Slovakia, Prime Minister of Slovakia and government officials. Prime minister several times
used also commercial flights for transport to show he is saving public funds. At the same time planes of Slovak
Government Flying Service flyed empty according to need of training of pilots.

South Africa
The President of South Africa travels in a Boeing 737-7ED (BBJ) operated by the South African Air Force's 21 Squadron,
which is based at AFB Waterkloof near Pretoria, one of South Africa's capital cities.

South Korea
Currently, the president of the Republic of Korea uses a Boeing 737-300 aircraft. But due to its short range, it is only used
in short flights to Japan or China. While using long flights, the president borrows a Boeing 747-400 from Asiana Airlines
or Korean Air. The Blue House is thinking of replacing the Korean Air Force One to a wide-body jet such as a Boeing 787
or an Airbus A350. The livery consists of a largely white body with a grey belly and a light blue cheatline. The country's
name is written in both Korean and English on the side and the flag is on the tail. The plane's registration is 85101. The
UH-60 is the presidential helicopter.

Spain
The Spanish Air Force (Spanish: Ejército del Aire) operates 2 customized Airbus A310, 5 Falcon 900, and several
helicopters for transportation of the King, the Prime Minister, high ranking government officials and the Royal Family.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 13 of 16
These transportation services are provided by the 45th Group of the Air Force, based in Torrejón Air Base, 24 kilometers
(15 miles) away from Madrid.

Sweden
The Swedish Air Force Transport Squadron Bromma (Stockholm), based on Stockholm-Bromma Airport in the City of
Stockholm, operates the State Flight (Swedish: Statsflyget). It forms part of the Special Flying Unit (Swedish:
Specialflygenheten Malmen), which in its turn is a part of the Blekinge Wing (F 17). Currently it operates two Gulfstream
G.IV aircraft:

n Air Force type TP102A (tail no. 102001, call sign SVF 21)
n Air Force type TP102C (tail no. 102004, call sign SVF 24)

Also a Cessna Citation II is operated. The aircrafts serve the official transport needs of His Majesty The King and other
members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers, and senior Swedish Armed Forces officers.

Switzerland
The Swiss Air Force operates a fleet of three small VIP transport aircraft:

n one Dassault Falcon 50 (T-783)

n one Cessna 560 XL Citation Excel (T-784)

n one Super King Air (T-721)

These aircraft are mainly used by members of the Swiss Federal Council. Travel The Swiss Air Force's Cessna
arrangements are coordinated by the Government Travel Centre in the Federal Department Citation Excel
of Foreign Affairs.

The 6th Air Transport Squadron (Lufttransportstaffel 6) also operates a number of Super Puma helicopters, one of which is
configured constantly as a VIP transport for domestic use and another one can be configured as a VIP transport.

Tanzania
The Tanzania Government Flight Agency operates a Gulfstream G550 for VIP transports.

Thailand
The Royal Thai Air Force's 602 Royal Guard Squadron operates a Boeing 737-800 for the Royal flight mainly for the King
and Queen.

The 602 Royal Guard also operates an Airbus A319 and Airbus A310-300 for the Royal flight and VIP's flight.

The Royal Thai Government used to use an Airbus A319 named "Thai Ku Fah" for government flights in PM Thaksin era.
Now the Airbus A319 has been moved to the Royal Thai Air Force to operate for Royal and VIP flight.

HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn also own a Boeing 737-400. This aircraft is the HRH's private plane and he also
fly this aircraft himself.

The Royal Thai Air Force's 402 Royal Guard Squadron, a helicopter unit, uses Bell 412STs for Royal flights. The
helicopters are expected to be replaced, as they are approaching the lifetime limit for VIP duty. The replacement for this
helicopters are Sikorsky S-92 Superhawk. Expected to deliver in 2010 for Royal flight and VIP flight.

Turkey
The Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey has two specially configured Aircraft for its use. The first and main mode of
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 14 of 16
air transport (namely, for use in Europe, Middle East and Africa) is a specially configured Airbus A319-115X CJ registered
as TC-ANA. The call sign for this aircraft is TCANA (English: Turkish Republic-MOTHER). [1] The other aircraft at the
Turkish Prime Minister's disposal is a specially configured and highly customized Gulfstream G550[15]. This is mainly
used for long range missions. In addition to the abovementioned aircraft the Turkish Prime Minister also has at his or her
disposal several VIP Boeing and Airbus aircraft which are maintained by Turkish Airlines, the national carrier of the
Turkish Republic.

The President of the Republic of Turkey uses a Gulfstream Aerospace G-IV VIP Jet registered TC-ATA, but again has
several special VIP aircraft of Turkish Airlines at his or her disposal. The call sign for this aircraft is TCATA (English:
Turkish Republic-ANCESTOR). [2] The call sign ATA has a resemblance with the word 'father' in Turkish. This word not
only implies to ancestors in retrospect, but also pinpoints the leading figure in a family or in a country (cf. Ataturk-the
Father of Turks or the Leading Turk). On that ground, TC-ATA (Alpha-Tango-Alpha) signifies the Turkish State Leader,
and yet a memoir filled with affection, to the position which was originally chaired by Ataturk himself.

All government VIP aircraft are manned and maintained by Turkish Air Force personnel.

Turkmenistan
A Boeing 767-300ER (EZ-A700) was delivered in October 2004 for use of the President of Turkmenistan.

Ukraine
Ukraine uses IL-62 for the President and Tupolev 134 for the Prime Minister as well as Yak-40 and Mi-8 for shorter trips.
A new Airbus 319 with extended range is to be delivered in 2008 to replace the IL-62.

United Kingdom
Air transport for the British monarch, other members of Royal Family, the Prime Minister
and other minister of the British Government is provided by either No. 32 (The Royal)
Squadron of the Royal Air Force (RAF), chartered civilian aircraft or scheduled
commercial flights (mostly British Airways). A BAe 146 aircraft, delivered
to the Queen's Flight in 1986
and now part of The Royal
United States Squadron

The President and Vice President of the United States use two customized Boeing 747-
200B jetliners. These aircraft carry the military designation VC-25A.

The callsign of any military aircraft that currently carries the President is called that
military branch name followed by "One", such as Air Force One or Marine One (which is
typically associated with a helicopter). The callsign of any military aircraft that currently
carries the Vice President is called that military branch name followed by "Two", such as
Air Force Two or Marine Two (which is typically associated with a helicopter). In the one
instance that the President traveled on a private aircraft its callsign was "Executive One". One of the United States Air
Force Boeing VC-25s used by
the President and executives of
Uruguay the United States

The President of Uruguay, Tabare Vazquez, uses an Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia, operated by the Uruguayan Air Force for
flights within South America or a chartered Pluna Boeing 767 for long-distance flights.

Vatican
Typically, the Pope flies on a chartered Alitalia Jet. The tradition is for the Pope to fly to
the country he is visiting on a chartered Alitalia jet and to return on a jet belonging to a
flag carrier from the visited nation. But when touring multiple nations this could turn odd. For example, when Pope John
Paul II visited South America in May 1988, he came to Paraguay from Peru in an AeroPerú DC-8, but left Asunción
International Airport back to Europe in a transcontinental Alitalia Boeing 747, which was brought-in just hours before his

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 15 of 16
farewell ceremony. Back then, Líneas Aéreas Paraguayas' longest-range aircraft were
Boeings 707-320Bs, which had to stop in Dakar to refuel. However, he politely traveled
within the country in a LAP jet, which incidentally carried the distinguished visitor's coat
of arms in the forward fuselage as courtesy. The pope's aircraft was nicknamed "Shepherd
One" by Americans after Pope Benedict XVI's visit to New York and Washington in
2008.[16] The call sign of a papal flight within Italy is "volo papale" ("papal flight" in
Italian) followed by the number of flights the pope has made. Pope John Paul II made 104
President George W. Bush
papal flights. [17] Pope Benedict XVI returned to Rome from Brazil on Alitalia. The walks the red carpet with Pope
Pope's plane is often referred to as "Shepherd 1", inspired by a biblical reference. [18] Benedict XVI. Behind is
"Shepherd One" the plane that
transported the Pope.
Venezuela
An Airbus A319CJ serves as the presidential transport for President of Venezuela Hugo Chávez [3].

Yugoslavia (former)
Former Yugoslav president Josip Broz Tito used many aircraft as presidential during his term. The most notable aircraft
types in service were the DC-6B, Ilyushin Il-18D, Sud Aviation Caravelle and Boeing 727.

Zaire
Perhaps one of the most controversial air transports for a head of state was that of Zaire leader Mobutu Sese Seko, who
leased a supersonic Concorde in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The jet, obtained from Air France, was based at Gbadolite
and was not only used for diplomatic missions but also for European shopping trips for the ruler's wealthy family. There
was also a Boeing 707 (registration number 9T-MSS) that was used for a while and has been stored in Lisbon since 1996,
as well as a Boeing 727 (9Q-RDZ).

References
1. ^ Canadian Air Forces CC-150 Polaris information
2. ^ Canadian Air Forces. CC-144 Challenger information
3. ^ http://www.emol.com/noticias/nacional/detalle/detallenoticias.asp?idnoticia=298602
4. ^ "Bundeswehr will im Eiltempo neue Regierungsflugzeuge anschaffen". Der Spiegel. 2008-03-07.
http://www.spiegel.de/politik/deutschland/0,1518,540155,00.html. Retrieved on 2008-03-12.
5. ^ Pope, Stephen, Aviation International News Olympic Airways Falcon 900 fatal blamed on pilot error
6. ^ [http://books.google.com/books?id=5DPDE2zBgHoC&pg=PA2422&dq=%22air+india+one%
22+prime+minister&as_brr=3&client=firefox-a Encyclopaedia of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh By Om Gupta]
7. ^ PM’s Air-India One
8. ^ India gets new VVIP business jets with special suites - The Hindu
9. ^ Airliners.net. Photo of the Royal Malaysian Air Force Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) M53-01 at Kota Bharu Airport The Chief
Minister of Sarawak uses a Cessna Citation X, registration 9M-ATM, which is operated by Hornbill Skyways, a State owned
charter Company.
10. ^ Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Boeing 707 - Airliners.net
11. ^ Lockheed Corporation C-130B - Airliners.net
12. ^ Pakistan International Airlines Boeing 737 (AP-BEH) - Airliners.net
13. ^ http://www.gatoencerrado.net/store/noticias/37/37578/detalle.htm
14. ^ "Vladimir Putin's Airforce Oneski". Daily Mail. 2007-02-05.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/worldnews.html?in_article_id=433616.
15. ^ http://haber.turk.net/ENG/2258317/-GEN--TURKEY-S-NEW-VIP-AIRCRAFT-FOR-PRIME-MINISTRY-ARRIVES-IN-
ISTANBUL
16. ^ Willey, David (2008-04-15). "Pope's US tour: Reporter's diary". BBC News. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7349513.stm.
17. ^ MH, SRJ (2005-12-06). ""Vliegende paus" heeft nu eigen luchthaven". Paus Benedictus XVI weblog.
http://pausbenedictusxvi.web-log.nl/pausbenedictusxvi/2005/12/vliegende_paus_.html.
18. ^ ALLEN, JOHN L. (2007-05-08). "Background on Brazil: Inside the papal plane". National Catholic Reporter.
http://ncrcafe.org/node/1077.

See also
n Official state car
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009
Air transports of heads of state and government - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Page 16 of 16
n State visit
n Royal Train
n Royal Yacht

External links
Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government"
Categories: Aircraft | Presidential aircraft
Hidden categories: Articles containing Spanish language text | Articles containing Indonesian language text | All articles
with unsourced statements | Articles with unsourced statements from March 2009 | Articles with unsourced statements
from February 2007 | Articles containing explicitly cited English language text

n This page was last modified on 29 June 2009 at 16:12.


n Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License; additional terms may apply. See
Terms of Use for details.
Wikipedia® is a registered trademark of the Wikimedia Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_transports_of_heads_of_state_and_government 30/06/2009

You might also like