Air Force Two is the United States Air Force’s call sign for aircraft carrying the Vice President of the United States. While many people associate the term with a specific plane, the designation is actually a role-based code used to identify secure, high-priority transport. This article explains what Air Force Two is, who typically flies on it, the aircraft commonly used, and the protocols that surround this essential element of the nation’s executive travel.
What Is Air Force Two
Air Force Two is not a fixed aircraft; it is a call sign. It is used whenever the Vice President is aboard a U.S. Air Force aircraft. If the Vice President is traveling on a commercial or non-military plane, the call sign does not apply. The adjacent term for the presidential mission is Air Force One, which designates aircraft carrying the President. The distinction underscores the formal security and command arrangements that protect the executive branch during travel.
Who Flies On Air Force Two
The primary passenger on Air Force Two is the Vice President. In addition to the Vice President, a small group of senior aides, security details, medical staff, and communications specialists typically accompany the VP. The exact crew can vary by mission and threat assessment, but standard personnel include a flight engineer or loadmaster, a mission commander, and a security detail from the United States Secret Service. Some trips also involve members of the Cabinet or other high-ranking officials attending meetings abroad, depending on the executive schedule.
Typical Aircraft Used
Air Force Two has no single aircraft dedicated to the role; rather, the designation is assigned to any U.S. Air Force aircraft carrying the Vice President. In recent years, several aircraft have commonly served this mission:
- VC-32A — A Boeing 757-based aircraft used by the Vice President and other senior officials. This platform provides long-range capability, modern security systems, and flexible interior configurations for staff and media entourage.
- C-37A Gulfstream V — A smaller, fast, and highly capable jet used for shorter or rapid international trips. When the Vice President is aboard, the flight carries the Air Force Two call sign.
- Other configurations — Depending on mission needs, additional specialized Air Force passenger jets or modified business jets can be used, as long as the Vice President is aboard and security parameters are met.
When the Vice President is not aboard, these aircraft may operate as part of routine command and control missions or other senior-level transport, but they do not carry the Air Force Two call sign. The choice of aircraft reflects the mission’s range, required security, and available onboard communications capabilities.
Protocols And Security
Air Force Two operations are tightly controlled by the Department of Defense and the Secret Service. Key elements include:
- Security — A dedicated security detail conducts pre-mmission risk assessment, security sweeps, and continuous threat monitoring. The aircraft is equipped with secure communications, anti-ram and anti-boarding measures, and contingency landing plans.
- Command And Communications — The Vice President’s staff establishes secure communications with the White House Situation Room, national leaders, and foreign counterparts. In-flight decision-making processes are designed to ensure rapid responses to changing circumstances.
- Flight Planning — Mission planners coordinate routes, authorized airspace, and temporary restrictions with the appropriate aviation authorities. Emergency procedures and alternates are identified before each flight.
- Media And Protocol — When traveling with the press pool, designated delegation communications maintain a balance between transparency and security. The VP’s schedule is tightly managed, with briefings and debriefings aligned to official channels.
These protocols emphasize continuity of government, crisis readiness, and the safety of the Vice President, staff, and crew. They also reflect standard aviation security practices used for high-profile executive travel.
Historical Context And Notable Missions
Air Force Two has played a role in numerous historic and routine travels. While the term itself is a functional call sign, the missions behind Air Force Two trips often involve high-level diplomacy, international summits, and critical legislative or policy discussions. The presence of the Vice President on board typically signals a significant engagement, such as treaty negotiations, bilateral meetings with foreign leaders, or major domestic initiatives requiring executive oversight.
Over time, the fleet supporting Air Force Two has evolved to balance range, speed, and reliability. As with many presidential and VP transport programs, upgrades have focused on secure communications, interoperable avionics, and improved cabin ergonomics for long-duration flights. The operational ethos remains consistent: rapid, secure, and discreet international mobility for the nation’s second highest elected official.
FAQ
- Is Air Force Two a specific plane? No. It is a call sign used for any U.S. Air Force aircraft carrying the Vice President.
- What aircraft are used for Air Force Two? Common platforms include the VC-32A (Boeing 757-based) and the C-37A Gulfstream V, among other configured jets as mission needs dictate.
- Does Air Force Two have its own fleet? The Air Force uses multiple aircraft configured for VIP transport. The choice depends on range, security, and mission requirements.
- How does Air Force Two differ from Air Force One? Air Force One is the call sign for aircraft carrying the President. Air Force Two serves the Vice President, and both terms imply high-security, executive travel.