If this capability is left off, it would be pretty surprising, given that Air Force One may arguably be the aircraft in the world that needs this ability the most. It would mean Air Force One could theoretically find itself in a situation some day where it has no choice but to land in a less-than-friendly nation due to being low on fuel. Of course, though, one could argue that that sort of unfriendly airspace would have made it hard for a USAF tanker to link up with Air Force One in the air anyway.
I am also curious what would have happened if Boeing had simply refused to make any Air Force Ones, period - the US government would have had no choice but to go with Airbus. Would be interesting optics.
And not helpful in later getting other USAF contracts.
What could possibly go wrong?:
They better get a good exterminator; I’m sure it’s filled with ‘bugs’.
Also, AIUI, the entire second floor of the current AF1 is staffed by military & secure comms, I’m guessing a flying palace doesn’t have all those comms, & it’s not like the retrofit can take place over night. Is he just planning on traveling in the dark?
Hmmm, maybe they can use a secure payphone in a street corner where anyone can listen in to their conversations.
Accept bribe/Trojan horse/bug nest first; figure out “legalities” later:
NVM, not really FQ response
The Onion has its own prediction:
The major advantage of 777X over 747-800 is economic – lower cost per passenger mile.
That’s not a major consideration for Air Force 1.
Plus a 747 has four engines vs the 777 with two.
And you know Donnie Two-scoops would be all over that.