'Korean Air Force One' President's New Exclusive Aircraft to Make First Flight in November Next Year
by Yang Nakgyu
Published 29 May.2020 16:59(KST)
Updated 01 Jun.2020 05:53(KST)
[Asia Economy Yang Nak-gyu Reporter] The president's new exclusive aircraft is expected to be introduced in November next year.
On the 29th, the Ministry of National Defense announced that it had signed a 5-year (2021?2026) lease contract with Korean Air, the sole bidder, for the Boeing 747-8i model as part of the third lease project for the Air Force One, the president's exclusive aircraft.
The Boeing 747-8i model, which will be used as the president's exclusive aircraft, boasts the fastest cruising speed of Mach 0.86 among existing large aircraft. It can operate up to 14 hours and cover a distance of 14,815 km.
This is about 2,300 km longer in range than the current presidential aircraft, the Boeing 747-400 model. The fuselage is also larger than before.
The authorities plan to install communication and security equipment, as well as defense systems against missile attacks on the 747-8i. After modifications to the interior structure, including bedrooms and staff seats, it will begin its mission from November next year.