Monday, Sept 23 2024

C-32 Archives Air & Space Forces Magazine

By A Mystery Man Writer

The C-32A provides dedicated vice presidential and DV airlift. C-32B is tasked with politically sensitive crisis-mobility. Both types were acquired as commercial Boeing 757s. Aircraft assigned to the 89th Airlift Wing at Andrews fly under the call sign “Air Force Two” during vice presidential missions, but additionally serve the First Lady, Congress, and Cabinet officials. The cabin is divided into sections, including a worldwide clear and secure voice and data communications suite, first-class cabin, two business-class cabins, center galley, lavatories, fully enclosed stateroom, and a conference and staff area. The C-32B provides DOD discreet, rapid, global airlift in support of government crisis response efforts. The C-32’s modern flight deck is designed to be easily upgraded, and the fleet recently underwent a full interior cabin refurbishment to more closely match the VC-25 fleet. Ongoing mods include installation of four, fully reclining crew rest seats to enable missions longer than the current 16-hour limit without pre-positioning relief crews. FY21 launches wide-band SATCOM upgrades as part of AMC’s Senior Leader Communication Modernization effort across the executive fleets. The fleet has an average of nine years’ life remaining, and DOD completed analysis in FY20 to potentially replace the C-32, E-4B, and Navy E-6B Mercury with a common airframe.