Air Force One is more than transportation – it has defined how presidents run the country and meet the world

Air Force One shouldn’t be seen as only a cool piece of flying technology or a political flash point. Instead, writes a historian, the presidential plane has shaped and defined the modern presidency.

By: Peter Kastor, Washington University in St. Louis, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 27, 2026

Words: 1,519

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 2 days ago

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By Peter Kastor, Washington University in St. Louis

Air Force One used to be a high-flying symbol of American technology, ingenuity and power. For many, it was also a source of national pride.

The current Boeing 747s that serve as Air Force One are a combination transport vehicle, command center, press room, medical center and apartment, complete with bedroom and office for the nation’s chief executive.

Now, to many, Air Force One has become …

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