Will Donald Trump's private jet and choppers be a downgrade from Air Force One after he steps down as POTUS?
Even before President Donald Trump became the 45th commander-in-chief of the United States, he did not lead too shabby of life, having a couple of private jets and three choppers at his disposal. But do they offer the same kind of security and luxury that he was able to get when he flew on the Air Force One? Or would he be forced to downgrade his mode of air journey after losing the 2020 election and leaving the presidential office?
Before the Air force One came to his temporary possession, he frequently made use of his company's $100 million Boeing 757 and a Cessna Citation X to travel in style. He also owns three Sikorsky S-76 helicopters – based in New York, Florida and Scotland. Here is how the president's jets and choppers measure up to the Air Force One:
Air Force One
It comprises two heavily customized Boeing 747-200B series aircraft which Trump had access to in the four years of his presidency. They each have a generous 4,000 sq feet of floor space. The three-level planes also contain their own presidential suite featuring an office, toilet and conference room. It also has quarters for guests to accommodate not only the Secret Service but also senior advisers and the media all of whom travel with the president on a regular basis.
It is also equipped with a medical suite containing an operating room, which is prepped with an always-on-board doctor if the latter needs to perform emergency surgery on the president. Two galley kitchens are always stocked to feed up to 100 at any given time. Up to 70 guests can join the president on board the Air Force One.
The plane has a range of about 12,600km (6,800 nautical miles) and can operate as a command center if required. It also contains advanced communications equipment including electronics that protect against electromagnetic pulses.
Trump's private jets and choppers
The Trump Organisation refurbished the Boeing 757 to accommodate just 43 passengers, down from its usual capacity of 200 people. It has a range of 7,600km (4,100 nautical miles). While it is less safe than the Air Force One, it beats the presidential ride when it comes to luxury. It boasts of a bedroom, guest room and dining room. From seat belts to bathroom fixtures, they are all 24-carat gold. The lounge area even has a full cinema entertainment system.
The Cessna Citation X seats just nine people and is said to be one of the fastest in the world zooming at 1,100km/h (705mph), which is slightly less than the speed of sound. It can fly at an altitude of 15,500 meters (51,000ft).
His choppers are mainly for members of his clubs around the world and guests to use at their convenience. Both his aircraft as well as his choppers have his trademark name emblazoned across the exterior. As a result, it will be difficult for anyone to mistake his distinctive red, white and blue helicopters.