Air transports of heads of state and government

Air transports for heads of state and government are, in many countries, provided by the air force in specially equipped airliners or business jets. One such aircraft in particular has become part of popular culture: Air Force One, used by the President of the United States and operated by the United States Air Force. Other well-known official aircraft include the Russian presidential aircraft, the British Royal Air Force VIP aircraft, the French Cotam 001, the Royal Canadian Air Force VIP aircraft, the German Konrad Adenauer, the Royal Australian Airforce VIP aircraft, the Japanese Air Force One, the South Korean Code One, the Indian Air India One, the Brazilian Air Force One, and the Israeli Wing of Zion.

Another well-known means of transportation for world leaders is by helicopter. Helicopters are seen as not only cheaper and more cost effective but also more convenient than a motorcade. These include the US President's Marine One, the South Korean Presidential Helicopter, King Charles III's Helicopter, and the Brazilian Presidential Helicopter.

If officials do not have their own aircraft or if their VIP aircraft are under maintenance, they would occasionally hire private jets, in which case a flag/coat of arms decal/sticker is often added on or near the door.

History

On 15 July 1910, the then Tsar of Bulgaria Ferdinand I became the first head of state to fly in an aircraft during a visit to Belgium.^[1]

In 1919, during Paris Peace Conference, senior British politicians including Prime Minister David Lloyd George and Leader of the House of Commons Bonar Law used several Airco DH.4 planes for the cross-Channel trips. Originally designed as bombers, modified planes featured an enclosed compartment for two passengers (cockpit was left open) and a separate luggage compartment. Dubbed Lloyd George's airplane, it was probably one of the first aircraft to be widely used by a political leader.^[2]^[3]

The British monarch became the first head of state or government to receive official and dedicated air transport when two Westland Wapitis were delivered to No. 24 Squadron RAF at RAF Northolt for the express purpose of the transportation of the Royal family in 1928. Between 1929 and 1935, Edward, Prince of Wales, purchased 13 aircraft. Although the RAF maintained at least one of these aircraft for a time, the Prince of Wales eventually became solely responsible for them. When the prince ascended to the throne in 1936 as Edward VIII, The King's Flight was formed as the world's first head of state aircraft unit.^[4] This unit initially used the King's own de Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide; however, this was replaced in May 1937 by an Airspeed AS.6J Envoy III.^{[citation needed]}

In the United States, prior to World War II overseas and cross-country presidential travel was rare. Franklin D. Roosevelt was the first president to fly in an aircraft while in office. During World War II, Roosevelt traveled on the Dixie Clipper, a Pan Am-crewed Boeing 314 flying boat, to the 1943 Casablanca Conference in Morocco. The flight covered 5,500 miles in three legs.^[5]^[6] The first dedicated aircraft proposed for presidential use was a Consolidated C-87 Liberator Express VIP transport aircraft. This aircraft, tail number 41-24159, was re-modified in 1943 for use as a presidential VIP transport, the Guess Where II, intended to carry President Franklin D. Roosevelt on international trips.^[7] The Secret Service subsequently reconfigured a Douglas C-54 Skymaster for duty as a presidential transport. This VC-54C aircraft, nicknamed the Sacred Cow, included a sleeping area, radio telephone, and retractable elevator to lift Roosevelt in his wheelchair. As modified, the VC-54C was used by President Roosevelt only once, on his trip to and from the Yalta Conference in February 1945.^[6]

In the postwar period, governments around the world have instituted similar provisions for the official aerial transportation of their heads of state and government.^{[citation needed]}

Africa

Angola

The Angolan Air Force currently operates the following aircraft for use by the government of Angola:^{[citation needed]}


Type	Quantity	Registration	Date of Delivery	Notes
Bombardier BD-700 Global Express XRS	2	D2-ANG D2-ANH	March 27, 2008 December 3, 2017	D2-ANH is of the -1A10 variant and was previously operated by multiple private jet companies in Portugal, Switzerland, and the United States from 2005 onwards.
De Havilland Canada Bombardier Dash 8	3	D2-EEA D2-EEB D2-EYU	June 29, 2011 June 29, 2011 June 1, 2013	D2-EEA is of the -402Q variant. D2-EEB is of the -402 variant and was previously operated by Canadian private airline Field Aviation from 2010 onwards. D2-EYU is of the -315 variant and was previously operated by Angolan charter airline Heli Malongo from 2007 onwards.
Dassault Falcon 900B	1	D2-ANT	August 1, 2014	Originally built in 1996. Previously operated by various private operators as well as the government of Kazakhstan.

These aircraft are generally used for medium-haul travel. For long-haul travel, officials usually tend to travel on corporate aircraft from companies like Deer Jet, Comlux, and Royal Jet.^{[citation needed]}

Previously operated aircraft include models like:^{[citation needed]}


Type	Quantity	Registration	Date of Delivery	Notes
Boeing 707	2	D2-MAN D2-TPR	May 29, 2003 February 7, 1995	Both aircraft are of the -300 variant. D2-MAN was first delivered to Pan Am in 1969, and was transferred to multiple charter airlines before being delivered to the Angolan government.^{[citation needed]} D2-TPR was first delivered to CAAC in 1973, before being transferred to Air China in 1988, then to the Angolan government.^{[citation needed]} Both aircraft were sold at auction in 2019.^[8]
Gulfstream III	1	D2-ECB	April 1, 1987	Last flight recorded was in November 2000.
Yakovlev Yak-40	1	D2-EAG	January 1, 1994	First delivered to Aeroflot in 1975 after acquisition from a German company, before being transferred to an Italian airline in 1986 and then delivered to the Angolan government. The aircraft has since been scrapped.^{[citation needed]}
Tupolev Tu-134	1	D2-ECC	January 1, 1977	Delivered to the Angolan government in 1977 and withdrawn from use in 2004.^{[citation needed]}

Any aircraft when used by the president flies under the callsign "ANGOLA1".^{[citation needed]}

Benin

Officials of the government of Benin currently use private corporate aircraft for travel overseas, such as on aircraft from companies like Royal Jet and Global Jet.^{[citation needed]}

However, the Beninese Air Force did formerly operate a number of aircraft for exclusive use by government officials:^{[citation needed]}


Type	Quantity	Registration	Date of Delivery	Notes
Boeing 727	1	TY-24A	November 15, 2006	Aircraft is of the -200 variant. Originally delivered to Iberia as EC-CFI in 1974 before being delivered to the Beninese government. Currently stored.^{[citation needed]}
Boeing 707	1	TY-BBW TY-BBR	November 1, 1987 November 4, 1983	Both aircraft are of the -300 variant. TY-BBW was originally delivered to Pan Am in 1961 as N758PA, and transferred to multiple different airlines before being delivered to the Beninese government. Last flight taken in 1989, before being stored and then scrapped in Belgium.^{[citation needed]} TY-BBR was originally delivered to BOAC in 1971 as G-AXXZ, before being transferred to British Airways, then Zambia Airways, before being finally delivered to the Beninese government.^{[citation needed]} Crashed in 1985 after an aborted take off in Sabha, Libya.^[9]
Dassault Falcon 50	1	TY-BBM	September 30, 1982	Originally delivered to a Libyan government airline in 1980. Transferred between multiple airlines from 1983 onwards, before crashing in 2018 as N114TD.^[10]
Fokker F28 Fellowship	1	TY-BBN	October 1, 1984	Aircraft is of the -4000 variant. First delivered new to a Beninese airline in 1982. Transferred between several airlines in Montenegro, Belgium, and Italy, before being scrapped in Myanmar.^{[citation needed]}

A Xi'an MA-600 aircraft bearing a Benin Government livery was spotted at Kunming Changshui Airport in December 2022. It is unknown if this has been delivered to Benin as of 2023 or if it is being used for VIPs. Additionally, during the 1990s, a Boeing 737-200 belonging to the government of Niger was spotted in a hybrid "Republique du Benin" livery.^{[citation needed]}

Any aircraft carrying the President flies under the callsign "BENIN01".^{[citation needed]}

Botswana

The Botswana Defence Force currently operates a Bombardier Global Express for use by the President, delivered new in 2009, registered OK1. It replaced a 1991 Gulfstream IV which bore the registration OK2.

Any aircraft carrying the President flies under the callsign "F001"/2".

Burkina Faso

Officials from the government of Burkina Faso currently use private corporate jets for all foreign travel.

However, the Burkina Faso government did previously operate a few aircraft for VIP transport:


Type	Quantity	Registration	Date of Delivery	Notes
Boeing 727	2	XT-BBE XT-BFA	July 1, 1988 April 30, 2005	XT-BBE is of the -100 variant. First delivered in 1966 to PSA Airlines before switching ownership between multiple private American airlines along with All Nippon Airways and Hapag-Lloyd before being delivered to the Burkina Faso government. Currently stored.^{[citation needed]} XT-BFA is of the -200 variant. First delivered to TAP Air Portugal as CS-TBY before switching ownership multiple times before being delivered to the Burkina Faso government. Reported to be grounded.^{[citation needed]}

Any aircraft carrying the president flies under the callsign "BFA1".

Burundi

The government of Burundi previously operated a Gulfstream IV for use by the President.^[11] It was delivered in 2014 after being used solely by the Bank of Utah and a few other private operators; however, it has since been sold to an unknown private operator and has since been mothballed at Madrid–Cuatro Vientos Airport.^{[citation needed]}

The government now uses commercial and private corporate aircraft for travel.^{[citation needed]}

Cabo Verde

The government travels on either commercial or private aircraft.

Cameroon

Officials from the government of Cameroon usually tend to travel on private corporate jets, using aircraft from companies like Aviation Link and Comlux.

However, the Cameroon Air Force did previously operate a number of aircraft for exclusive use by the President and government officials. These include:


Type	Quantity	Registration	Date of Delivery	Notes
Gulfstream III	1	TJ-AAW	June 3, 1987	Delivered new to the Cameroonian government in 1987. Last flight recorded was in March 2015.^{[citation needed]}
Boeing 727	1	TJ-AAM	November 22, 1978	Aircraft is of the -200 variant. Delivered new to the Cameroonian government in 1978. Currently stored.^{[citation needed]}
Boeing 767	1	TJ-AAC	March 23, 2004	Aircraft is of the -200 variant. First delivered in 1986 to LAN Chile, before switching hands between multiple airlines and finally settling with the Cameroonian government in 2004. The aircraft developed multiple technical issues following its first flight, which resulted in the "Albatross scandal" - where multiple high-ranking political leaders were jailed for attempting to kill the president by sabotaging the plane.^[12] From 2005 onwards, the aircraft was transferred between multiple private airlines in the US and UK, before being leased to the Djiboutian government in 2010, and then to a South African charter airline in 2011. It is currently stored.^{[citation needed]}

Any aircraft carrying the president flies under the callsign "CMR1".

Central African Republic

Officials from the government of the Central African Republic usually travel on commercial flights or private corporate aircraft for travel.

Chad

The Government of Chad currently the following aircraft for use by the President and government officials:


Type	Quantity	Registration	Date of Delivery	Notes
McDonnell Douglas MD-80	1	TT-ABC	March 10, 2008	Aircraft is of the -87 variant. First delivered as OE-LMO to Austrian Airlines in 1990. Retired from commercial service in 2005, before being transferred to an American aircraft leasing company and finally being delivered to the Chadian government.^{[citation needed]}
Boeing 737	1	TT-ABD	August 25, 2010	Aircraft is of the -700 and BBJ variant. First delivered to private airline Mid East Jet in 1999 as N737GG, before being delivered to the Chadian government in 2010. Painted in a Mid East Jet-style livery with "Republique du Tchad" titles.^{[citation needed]}
ATR 42	1	TT-ABE	October 21, 2013	Aircraft is of the -300 variant. First delivered to a French airline in 1991 as F-GKNC, before switching ownership between multiple commercial airlines and finally the Chadian government.^{[citation needed]}
Gulfstream II	1	TT-AAI	June 1, 1991	Delivered new. Last recorded flight was in 2009.

Officials also occasionally travel on private corporate aircraft.

Any aircraft carrying the president flies under the callsign "CHAD01".

Comoros

The Comorian government uses other countries' VIP aircraft or private corporate aircraft for travel. For example, in 2019, a delegation from Comoros travelled to a summit in Russia on a Nigerian 737-BBJ.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

The government currently operates a Gainjet-owned Boeing 737-900 BBJ, registered T7-RDC. They also operate a Gulfstream which was impounded for several years in Spain due to debt disputes.

Previously operated aircraft include a Boeing 707 painted in a crude Boeing-style livery and a Boeing 727. Private aircraft are also occasionally used for travel.

Any aircraft carrying the president flies under the callsign "DRC001".

Republic of Congo

The government previously operated a Dassault Aviation Falcon 7X; however, it was impounded at Paris Le Bourget Airport and has since been stored. They have nowadays resorted to hiring private jets. Previously operated aircraft have included a Boeing 707 in a JAR Aircraft Services livery and a Douglas DC-8.

Any aircraft carrying the president flies under the callsign "CONGO01".

Djibouti

The Djiboutian government owns a Dassault Falcon 7X for travel. A Boeing 727, Boeing 767, and Dassault Falcon 50 were previously used. They have also been known to use private planes for select trips. The Dassault Falcon 7X flies with its registration as a callsign without the hyphen.

Egypt

The government of Egypt operates a Boeing B747-8 initially built for Lufthansa in 2015 bought in 2022,^{[citation needed]} two Dassault Aviation Dassault Falcon 7X,^[13] and one Airbus A340 from 1995 bought by Hosni Mubarak.

Equatorial Guinea

The government of Equatorial Guinea previously used aircraft from Ceiba Intercontinental, a Malabo-based airline, for international travel. This has since been discontinued and a separate Boeing 777-200LR is used solely for government officials. A Boeing 737 and a Dassault Falcon 900 have also been known to been used previously. These planes use their registrations as callsigns.

Eritrea

The government of Eritrea uses private aircraft for travel.

Eswatini

The government of Eswatini operates two aircraft: a McDonnell Douglas MD-87 which was impounded in Ottawa for debt reasons, and an Airbus A340-300 which was sold from China Airlines. These aircraft use their registrations as callsigns.

Ethiopia

The government uses various aircraft from Ethiopian Airlines for travel.

Gabon

Before 2016, the Gabonese government operated one second-hand Boeing 777-200 for use by the President of Gabon. It was previously owned by British Airways, Khalifa Airways, leased from Air Algerie, then stored at Boeing after the lease. After it was bought, the aircraft was ferried to Charlotte Airport to be converted to VIP use, then ferried to Libreville. Due to the Gabonese government failing to pay US$8 million for cabin outfitting, it was impounded at Orly Airport in February 2015 before returning to service two months later. It is currently stored. Nowadays, the government travels on two Gulfstream Aerospace aircraft, registered TR-KSP and TR-KGM. Any plane carrying the president flies under the callsign "GABON01".

Gambia

The government of Gambia operated a Boeing 727 and a Bombardier Challenger in 2015. An Ilyushin Il-62 was used during the rule of Yahya Jammeh. All these planes, however, have since been grounded.^{[citation needed]} The government now flies on private planes. Any plane carrying the president flies under the callsign GAM001.

Ghana

The government of Ghana operate a Dassault Falcon 900EX, registered as 9G-EXE.^[14] It carries the callsign "GHA1" when carrying the president.^{[citation needed]}

Guinea

The government once operated a Turkish-owned Gulfstream for travel, among other private and commercial aircraft. Another notable private aircraft was a Royal Jet 737 which was temporarily painted in a "Republic of Guinea" livery for use during a trip to Russia.^{[citation needed]}

Guinea-Bissau

The government does not have its own VIP aircraft; however, recently, the president was spotted using a Ghanaian Dassault Falcon 900 and an Ivory Coast Gulfstream for foreign trips. Private and commercial aircraft have also been used for travel. Aircraft which carry the President usually flies under the callsign "BISS001".

Ivory Coast (Côte d'Ivoire)

The Ivorian government uses a Gulfstream IV, registered TU-VAD as a VIP aircraft and a Gulfstream V, registered TU-VAE. It also uses an Airbus A320 registered TU-VAJ and Airbus A319 registered TU-VAS for longer trips. The planes when carrying the President fly under the callsign "IVY01".

Kenya

The government of Kenya currently operates a Fokker 70 registered KAF308 and officially named "Harambee One". It was purchased in 1995 and used for the first time on 26 January 1996 by President Daniel arap Moi.^[15] Prior to the purchase of the Fokker, the Kenyan President primarily and occasionally still uses Kenya Airways for his international travel. The presidential fleet also includes three Bombardier Dash 8s, registered KAF304, KAF305, and KAF306, as well as an Aerospatiale Puma, and a Cessna 208B, mostly for domestic travel. However, most of the time the president flies on commercial aircraft from Kenya Airways overseas.^{[citation needed]}

Liberia

The government uses a French-registered Dassault Falcon 900EX for travel.

Madagascar

The government of Madagascar operated a Boeing 737-300 in 2015.^[16] That was retired, and they now use commercial or private planes.

Malawi

During the presidency of Bingu wa Mutharika, the government operated a Dassault Falcon 900. After his death in 2012, the new president, Joyce Banda, sold it to use the money for the poor. The president of Malawi now travels abroad on chartered aircraft.

Mali

The government of Mali operates a Boeing 737-700/BBJ, registered TZ-PRM,^[17] which flies under the callsign MALI01.^{[citation needed]}

Mauritius

The government tends to use commercial or private aircraft for travel.

Mozambique

The government of Mozambique currently uses a Raytheon Hawker 850XP registered FAM-002, owned by the country's Air Force, and a VIP Bombardier Challenger 850 registered C9-MEL, owned by Mozambique Expresso Airlines, for VIP travel.

During Communist rule, a Tupolev TU-134AK was used by the government for travel. However, the aircraft was written off in a crash in South Africa which killed President Samora Machel and government officials in 1986.

In 2017, reports arose that President Filipe Nyusi had bought a $7 million private jet, which was spotted being used to transport the president to President Robert Mugabe's inauguration in Zimbabwe.

Namibia

The Namibian government uses a Dassault Falcon 7x and Dassault Falcon 900 for VIP transport. When these aircraft are carrying the president, the carry the callsign "NAM001". For domestic flights, a Learjet 31A and two AW139 helicopters are also used, with a Learjet 45 soon to be acquired.

Niger

The Government of Niger used to operate a Boeing 737-200Adv for official flights. This was stored in 2014 and replaced by a Boeing 737-700 (BBJ). The plane currently flies under the callsign "NIGER01" when transporting the President.

Nigeria

The Nigerian Air Force currently maintains a Boeing Business Jet (737) registered 5N-FGT as the primary means of transport for the President of Nigeria. The aircraft is known as "Eagle One" and is marked NAF-001. In addition, there is a Gulfstream V-SP registered 5N-FGS, a Gulfstream 550 registered 5N-FGW, two Falcon 7X registered 5N-FGV and 5N-FGU, a Dornier 228 and three A139 helicopters. There is also a Bombardier Challenger 605 registered 5N-FGZ. However, the Falcon 900s (two), a GIV-SP, and G II were all destroyed on advice by the Presidential Guard Brigade. A Citation Bravo and Hawker 800 were returned to the Air Force. The 737 flies under the callsign NGR1 when carrying the President.

Rwanda

The government of Rwanda leases a Qatar Executive Gulfstream G650ER for travel, which flies under the callsign "QQE".

São Tomé and Príncipe

The government uses commercial aircraft for travel.

Senegal

An Airbus A320neo registered 6V-SEN is currently used for VIP transport. An Airbus A319 registered 6V-ONE, acquired in 2011 to replace a Boeing 727, is also used.

Any plane carrying the president uses the callsign "SENE001".

Seychelles

The government uses commercial aircraft for travel. In particular, during a state visit to Mauritius in November 2020, President Wavel Ramkalawan used a Beechcraft 1900D (reg: S7-DES) from IDC Aviation (Islands Development Company).^[18]

Sierra Leone

The government uses commercial or private aircraft for travel. They are also known to use VIP aircraft from other countries for travel.^[19] Any aircraft carrying the President flies under the callsign "SIER001".

Somalia

The government of Somalia operated a Beechcraft 1900 turboprop which has been scrapped. They now use private or commercial planes, or they use other countries' government planes.

South Africa

The President of South Africa travels in a Boeing 737 (BBJ) ZS-RSA "Inkwazi" which is designated as "South African One" and operated by the South African Air Force's 21 Squadron, which is based at AFB Waterkloof near Pretoria, the executive capital, i.e. the seat of the executive branch of the South African government.^{[citation needed]}

21 Squadron also operates a fleet of two Falcon 50s ZS-CAS and ZS-CAQ and a Falcon 900B ZS-NAN. The Falcon 900 is normally used by the Deputy President and high-ranking cabinet ministers.^{[citation needed]}

A Boeing 727 registered ZS-PVX and a Gulfstream registered P4-BFY have also, in the past, been used to VIP travel when the Boeing 737 is unavailable. The President also uses aircraft from South African Airways for particular long haul flights.^{[citation needed]}

In 2015, President Jacob Zuma asked Armscor to procure a business jet with the capability of carrying at least 30 passengers and traveling long range distances and which is much larger than the current presidential jet (Inkwazi). Models being considered included the Boeing 777, Boeing 787 and Airbus A340.^[20]^{[verification needed]} This purchase was never authorised and the plans for a new jet were scrapped after Zuma was removed as president.^{[citation needed]}

Any plane carrying the President uses the callsign "LMG1".^{[citation needed]}

South Sudan

The government currently charters planes from RwandAir and Kenya Airways, due to their respective countries' having good relations with South Sudan. There were efforts made to purchase a designated presidential plane, but this was met with opposition from political parties.

Tanzania

The Tanzania Government Flight Agency operates a Gulfstream G550 (5H-ONE)^[21] and a Fokker F28-3000 (5H-CCM), and a Fokker 50 (5H-TGF).^{[citation needed]} Whenever a plane is carrying the president, it uses the callsign "TANZANIA 001".^{[citation needed]}

Togo

The Togolese government previously used multiple different aircraft for travel, such as a Boeing 707, a Douglas DC-8-55, a Gulfstream II, and a Fokker F-28-1000. All these aircraft have been scrapped, and the government now uses private planes, particularly a Burkina Faso-registered Dassault Falcon 8X, and an Airbus A318. Whenever a plane flies with the president, it carries the callsign "TOGO01".

Uganda

The Gulfstream Aerospace G550 (reg: 5X-UGF) is used to transport the President and government officials. The President of Uganda uses a Mil Mi-171 of the Uganda People's Defence Force for internal flights.^{[citation needed]} The helicopter was delivered in early 2016 after the government had budgeted 11.3 billion Ugandan Shillings for the new helicopter.^[22] It is equipped with a cloak room, snack bar, bathroom and luggage compartment^[23] and seats up to 12 passengers.^[24] The plane uses the callsign "RAU1/2".^{[citation needed]}

Zambia

The first Zambian president, Kenneth Kaunda, used a Douglas DC-8 of the now liquidated Zambia Airways among other national carriers. His departure from office saw his successor Frederick Chiluba acquire a more modern look for government and thus a Challenger CL604 (reg: 9J-ONE) was acquired.^{[citation needed]}

In 2019, a Sukhoi Superjet 100 in a business jet configuration was ordered^[25] but was later cancelled.^[26]

Also, at the end of 2018, the Zambian Air Force bought a Gulfstream G650 (AF001) for the president. This deal caused a scandal within the country.^[27]^[28]^[29]^[30]

Any aircraft carrying the President uses the callsign "AFZ1".^{[citation needed]}

Zimbabwe

The President of Zimbabwe travels in a chartered Air Zimbabwe Boeing 767-200ER aircraft, which is part of the national airline's fleet. Occasionally, the president will share the aircraft with commercial passengers on scheduled flights. The president's own British Aerospace 146–200 Series aircraft ordered in the 1980s by the Ministry of Defence as a VIP aircraft for the President's use was leased to the national airline upon delivery after Air Zimbabwe's need for an aircraft that could land on the country's short local runways had become dire. The aircraft was leased to the airline under an arrangement that provided for Air Zimbabwe to maintain it and fly it as required, and the President to have the use of it when needed. After the British Aerospace 146–200 was retired, the national airline continued its role as a state VIP transporter, using the 767-200ER.In June 2023, it was reported that the president took delivery of a Dassault Falcon priced at 65 million

Any aircraft carrying the President uses the callsign "AZW1".

Asia

Afghanistan

The government of the former Islamic Republic of Afghanistan had no official plane for travel purposes. Instead officials usually travelled on rented aircraft of local commercial airlines, such as Ariana Afghan Airlines, Safi Airways, and Kam Air. There were also some occasions where the President travelled overseas on Azerbaijani-registered aircraft. For a while in the 2000s also, the government also used a former Saudi Boeing 727 for official travel.

In January 2022, months after the Taliban reclaimed power in Afghanistan, representatives of the government of the new Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan attended a series of meetings in Norway, the first official visit by a delegation from the group to Europe since taking power.^{[citation needed]} The delegation used a Dassault Falcon 7X corporate jet operated by Finnish operator Jetflite, registered OH-WIX, which was reportedly paid for by the Norwegian government.^{[citation needed]}

Armenia

The Armenian Government operates an Airbus A319CJ for VIP use.^[31] A Tupolev Tu-134 was previously used. The A319 usually flies under a four-digit callsign "ARY".^{[citation needed]}

Azerbaijan

The President of Azerbaijan currently has several aircraft dedicated for travel. These include an Airbus A319 nicknamed "Baku", an Airbus A320 Prestige, a Boeing 767-300ER nicknamed "Baku-1", a leased Airbus A340-600 nicknamed "Baku-8",^[32] and a Boeing 777-200.^{[citation needed]} A number of Gulfstreams are also operated by the government for shorter travel.^{[citation needed]} The long-haul aircraft are equipped with jamming equipment, anti-missile systems, and midair refueling equipment.^{[citation needed]} These aircraft are all painted in the livery of national airline Azerbaijan Airlines. Previously used aircraft include a Tupolev 154, Tupolev 134, and a Sikorsky S-92.^{[citation needed]}

The A340 and 777 usually flies under the callsign "AHY6731"/2", the 767 under the callsign "AHY6734", the A319 under the callsign "AH6735"/6", the A320 under the callsign "AHY6737"/8", and the Gulfstreams use their registrations as callsigns.^{[citation needed]}

Bangladesh

A Biman Boeing 777-300ER (left) and Boeing 787-8 (right), which are mostly used by PM for VVIP trips

For most overseas trips, the President and the Prime Minister of Bangladesh travel on aircraft of the country's national flag carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines.^{[citation needed]}

For long-distance flights or flights with an especially large entourage, a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft is usually used; for medium to short-distance flights a Boeing 787 Dreamliner^[33] is typically used. In many cases two Biman aircraft are reserved for government flights, one as a standby aircraft. The aircraft carrying a government leader usually flies under the callsign "BBC001" or otherwise a special typical Biman callsign.^{[citation needed]}

The Bangladesh Air Force has a VVIP fleet of four helicopters, two Mil Mi-17s and two Bell 212s. One is always reserved for VVIP flights; the other three are for carrying the staff and entourage.^{[citation needed]}

Bhutan

The King and the Government of Bhutan use an Airbus A319 from the national flag carrier Drukair for travel, which flies under a regular Drukair (DRK) callsign.

Brunei

His Majesty The Sultan's Flight (HMSF) has several aircraft in VIP configuration exclusively for the Sultan of Brunei and members of the Royal Family. These include a Boeing 767-200ER, a Boeing 747-8 BBJ, and a Boeing 787-8.

An Airbus A310, Boeing 747-400, Boeing 747SP, and Airbus A340-200 were previously used as well. The A340, 767, and 787 carry a hybrid Royal Brunei Airlines livery, whereas the 747s carry a white livery with brown lines and the coat-of-arms of Brunei on the tail.

All aircraft fly with their registrations without hyphens as callsigns.^{[citation needed]}

Cambodia

The Kingdom of Cambodia operated a Chinese-registered Airbus A320 in 2015 which flies under the callsign KOC01.^[11] The government has also occasionally used private or commercial aircraft for travel.^{[citation needed]}

China, People's Republic of (China)

Air transportation for the CCP general secretary, president, premier or other government officials of China is managed and operated by the 34th division of the People's Liberation Army Air Force. Six Boeing 737-300s, two 737-700s, and four 737-800s, as well as three Airbus A319s and ten Bombardier Challenger 800 are used for these missions.^{[citation needed]}

A Boeing 747-8I with Air China branding and registration B-2479 was converted and tested for exclusive use as head of state transport around 2016–2017. Although no official photos have been released, it is speculated that the interior is fitted with conference tables, private bedrooms, office suites, and more.^[34]^[35] Boeing 747s from Air China's cargo subsidiary Air China Cargo are used to transport the President's limousines when traveling overseas.^{[citation needed]}

A commercial Air China Boeing 747-4J6 has in the past been converted for international travel when necessary. The three 747-400 used for this purpose have the following registrations: B-2445, B-2447, B-2472. At least one of them are specially retrofitted during official use and returns to commercial service afterwards;^[36]^[37] however, since 2020, all 747-400s have officially been retired from government use and have since been converted to a permanent commercial airline configuration.^{[citation needed]}

A secondhand Boeing 767-300ER was purchased by the Chinese government for use by the then Chinese leader Jiang Zemin in 2000. An international incident occurred in 2001 when the government claimed it had discovered 27 bugs embedded in the aircraft's interior.^[38] The aircraft had been refitted in San Antonio, Texas. It has since been converted back to a normal passenger airliner and sold.^[39] A normal Air China Boeing 767 was occasionally used for travel from thereon.^{[citation needed]}

Lower-ranking officials such as the Vice President are transported in an Air China Airbus A330.^{[citation needed]}

In order not to confuse air traffic control between a VIP flight and a normal flight, planes carrying government officials fly under the callsign CA1 to CA99, since all commercial callsigns of Air China are from CA101 and above.^{[citation needed]}

Georgia

Georgian Airways operated a single Bombardier Challenger 850 since 2007 to carry the President of Georgia and government officials. In 2011, a Gulfstream 450 was added to its inventory, possibly replacing the Challenger in its VIP transport role.^[40] The planes fly under four-digit Georgian Airways callsigns.^{[citation needed]}

Hong Kong

The chief executive of Hong Kong travels on commercial aircraft, usually operated by Cathay Pacific. He or she travels within the territory on helicopters operated by the Government Flying Service.

India

Air India One (AIC001) is the callsign of any aircraft with the President, Vice President or the Prime Minister of India on board.^[41] For international travel, two dedicated Indian Air Force Boeing 777-300ERs with registrations K7066 and K7067 which arrived in October 2020 are used.^[42] The aircraft are equipped with encrypted satellite communication facilities and advanced navigation aids.^{[citation needed]} The jets are also equipped with an advanced missile warning system, a missile deflecting shield, and electronic countermeasures to provide protection from any ground-based or airborne threat. The aircraft are also equipped with flares and glares to mislead any missile.^{[citation needed]}

For domestic and short distance international travel, three Boeing 737 BBJ aircraft are used. The three Boeing 737-200 also used by the President, the Vice President or the Prime Minister were inducted in 2008.^[43] These aircraft have a range of 3,000 to 4,000 nautical miles (5,600 to 7,400 km) and are fitted with encrypted satellite communication facilities and advanced navigation aids.^{[citation needed]} The jets are also equipped with an advanced missile warning system, a missile deflecting shield and electronic counter measures so as to provide protection from any ground-based or airborne threats.^{[citation needed]}

Other aircraft used by other government officials are four 14-seater Embraer 135s.^[44]

Apart from these aircraft, there are several helicopters used such as the Mi-8 for carrying the President and the Prime Minister for travelling shorter distances. These aircraft and helicopters are operated by the Indian Air Force.^{[citation needed]}

Indonesia

As Indonesia is a sprawling archipelagic nation,^[45] the president of Indonesia frequently needs VVIP air transportation for visiting Indonesian provinces, attending international summits and meetings, and traveling on official foreign visits. In April 2014, Indonesia acquired Indonesia One, an aircraft dedicated for the president and the vice president and their entourage.^[46]

Before the acquisition of Indonesia One, the president and the vice president used aircraft chartered from Garuda Indonesia for their air travels.^{[citation needed]} Boeing 737-800s were used for domestic flights and short-range international flights, and Airbus A330-300s were used for most overseas trips and state visits.^{[citation needed]}

When Indonesia One was delivered in 2014, the government claimed the cost of operating its own aircraft would be lower than chartering Garuda aircraft.^[47]^[48] The aircraft is the Boeing Business Jet variant of the 737-800. The aircraft was designed to meet the minimum safety and security requirements of Indonesia's VVIP air transportation,^[49] and includes a modest self-defense system.^[46]

In 2020, the Indonesian government chartered a Boeing 777-300ER, registration PK-GIG, from Garuda Indonesia for special use as a presidential aircraft on long-haul flights; the aircraft is painted in a special livery.^[50]

When carrying the president, the planes use the callsign "IDAF01".^{[citation needed]}

The Indonesian Air Force also has special VIP squadrons for the President, Vice President and government ministers. ^{[citation needed]}These are the 17th Air Squadron (Indonesian: Skadron Udara 17) operating Avro RJ85, Boeing 737-400, Falcon 7X and 8X, and Lockheed L-100 fixed-wing aircraft; and the 45th Air Squadron (Indonesian: Skadron Udara 45) flying Aérospatiale AS 332L-1 Super Puma helicopters.^{[citation needed]} Both squadrons are based at Halim Perdanakusuma Airforce Base, Jakarta, and almost all presidential flights depart from there.^{[citation needed]}

Japan

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force operates two Boeing 777-300ER aircraft for use by the Prime Minister, the Emperor, Empress, and other members of the Imperial Family.^{[citation needed]}

They have the radio callsigns Japanese Air Force One and Japanese Air Force Two when operating on official business, and Cygnus One and Cygnus Two when operating outside of official business (e.g., on training flights and ferry flights).^{[citation needed]} The aircraft always fly together on government missions, with one serving as the primary transport and the other serving as a backup with maintenance personnel on board. The aircraft are officially referred to as Japanese government exclusive aircraft (日本国政府専用機 Nippon-koku seifu sen'yōki).^{[citation needed]}

Until March 2019, two Boeing 747-400 aircraft were used. The aircraft were constructed at the Boeing factory at the same time as the United States Air Force One VC-25s, though the US aircraft were built to the 747-200 design, while the Japanese aircraft were built to the more contemporary 747-400 design. Both Japanese aircraft were delivered in 1990.^[51]

Kazakhstan

The Kazakhstan government fleet consists of the following aircraft (August 2015):

The A330 and A321 have a blue and yellow-striped Comlux-style livery with blue "KAZAKHSTAN" titles in English and Kazakh, while the Boeing 757, Tupolev Tu-154 and A320 have a plain white livery with the flag of Kazakhstan on the tail, while the 737 has a white blue-stripe livery.

The planes fly under the callsign "BEC1" whenever one is carrying the President.

Korea, North (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un travels overseas on one of two VIP configured Ilyushin Il-62M aircraft of the Korean People's Army Air Force operated by Air Koryo crew, known as Chammae-1.^[52] Kim Jong-un's private aircraft is known as Goshawk-1.^[53] These aircraft occasionally fly under the callsign "DPK".^{[citation needed]}

Korea, South (Republic of Korea)

Since January 2022, a Boeing 747-8I leased from Korean Air to the Republic of Korea Air Force conducts official international travels by the President of South Korea. Known by the call sign "Code One" (KAF001), the aircraft is based in Seoul Air Base and operational support is provided by Korean Air.^[54] From April 2010 to January 2022, a dedicated Boeing 747-400 leased from Korean Air served in this role. Originally even pilots and flight attendants were from Korean Air, though they were planned to be replaced by Air Force personnel.^[55] Before the 747-400 was leased, the President used a Boeing 737-300 for short-distance trips and chartered a Boeing 747 aircraft belonging to Korean Air or Asiana Airlines for longer distance trips.^{[citation needed]} In the latter case, the presidential seal would be mounted on the forward passenger door to show that that aircraft is carrying the President.^{[citation needed]}

The VIP aircraft has been highly modified with much of the technology onboard being classified. What is publicly known is that the VIP aircraft has infrared vision, secure satellite communication, secure telephone communications, a missile defense system, a missile deflection system, and is made out of a special metal to reduce its radar footprint.^{[citation needed]} It also has had a complete renovation of the interior of the plane, turning the plane into a flying command center so the president can continue his or her duties. When in operation, another aircraft acts as a decoy and a spare. ^{[citation needed]}

The Air Force also operates one Boeing 737-300 and several CASA/IPTN CN-235s for government travel. The 737, in service since 1983, was used in the country's first presidential visit to Pyongyang in 2000.^{[citation needed]}

A Sikorsky S-92, acquired in 2007, is used as a presidential helicopter. It has secure telephone communications, secure satellite communications, Infrared vision, missile defense system and is made out of a special metal that makes it hard to detect on radar systems.^{[citation needed]} Two other helicopters fly with it as decoys and spares.^{[citation needed]} The helicopter is based at Seoul Air Base.^{[citation needed]}

Kyrgyzstan

The government of Kyrgyzstan operated a single Tupolev Tu-154M in 2010, which usually flies under four-digit callsigns "KGC" and "LYN".^[16]

Laos

The Lao Government uses a Lao Airlines Airbus A320 (specifically registered RDPL-34199) for government trips, and uses a Xian MA-600 for special squadron flights and private travels. The plane usually flies under the callsign "QV1".

Macau

The Chief Executive of Macau travels abroad (and to mainland China destinations) on commercial aircraft operated by Air Macau, the de facto flag carrier of the territory. As Macau is a small locale, there is no need for air travel within the territory.

Malaysia

Malaysia's Prime Minister and Yang di-Pertuan Agong (Ruling Monarch) travel aboard aircraft operated by the Royal Malaysian Air Force. For this purpose, an Airbus ACJ319 named Perdana 1 was purchased in 2007, and an Airbus ACJ320 named Perdana 2 in 2015. Other fixed wing aircraft in use include a Dassault Falcon 900, a Bombardier Global Express BD-700, and a Boeing 737-800 BBJ.^[56]^[57] Helicopters including three S-70 Black Hawks and three S-61A4 Nuris are also used. Also latest addition to the fleet is 9M-JPM Agusta Westland AW139. The planes when carrying the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and/or the Prime Minister fly under the callsign "NR1".^{[citation needed]}

Maldives

The government uses commercial aircraft for travel. In addition, the President has been known to use aircraft from the Saudi Government for religious trips.^[58]

Mongolia

The Mongolian President and Prime Minister with other members of the State Great Khural use a Boeing 767-300ER or Boeing 737-800 for short to medium range from Government owned by MIAT Mongolian Airlines, which also uses a Mongolian Airlines callsign. In domestic routes, the head of Mongolia and other government officials use Saab 340B or Fokker 50 chartered from Eznis Airways and Aero Mongolia.

Myanmar

The government uses various commercial airliners for travel, particularly airlines based in Myanmar. If that is not available, however, other commercial aircraft or government aircraft from other countries is used.

Nepal

The present President of Nepal, Prime Minister of Nepal, and other senior government officials travel on regular scheduled commercial flights or chartered flights by either Nepal Airlines or Himalaya Airlines. There is no plane used specifically for VIP operations.^[59]

Pakistan

The history of VIP transport in Pakistan dates back to August 1947, when an ex-British Imperial Air Force Vickers VC.1 Viking was acquired to serve as the official transport aircraft for the Governor-General of Pakistan. This aircraft is considered as the first to use the call sign reserved for an aircraft flying Pakistan's head of state or head of government, 'PAKISTAN ONE'. Governor-Generals Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and Khawaja Nazimuddin used the aircraft until 195, when it was retired. It remained parked at Karachi's Mauripur Airbase and then at a Pakistan Air Force Base in Peshawar. In 1997, the aircraft was disassembled and transported to Karachi and put up for display at the Pakistan Air Force Museum.

In the 1960s and 70s, Presidents Muhammad Ayub Khan, Yahya Khan and Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto used Boeing 707 jetliners of the national flag carrier, Pakistan International Airlines. In the 1980s, President Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq used a Lockheed C-130B Hercules. In the 90s, Prime Ministers Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto used a Boeing 737 for their official trips which was maintained by the Pakistani Government. During the late 1990s, Sharif's government bought a Boeing 737-300 for official use. Initially its role was rotated between serving as a regular commercial aircraft for Pakistan International Airlines and as a VIP transport for the government. However, following a military coup in 1999 the aircraft was permanently transferred to Pakistan International Airlines. The President and Prime Minister then resorted to using two of the airline's Airbus A310s for official visits, while rare trips were done on regular commercial flights of the airline. In 2007 the Qatari government gifted an Airbus A310-300 of the Qatar Amiri Flight to Pakistan, which was operated for the Pakistan Air Force by Pakistan International Airlines.

Since 2010 two Gulfstream IVs with serial numbers J-755, J-756 and four AW 139 helicopters from the Pakistan Air Force are used by the President and Prime Minister for air travel. The planes all fly under regular Pakistan Air Force callsigns.

Philippines

The 250th Presidential Airlift Wing of the Philippine Air Force is used to transport the President of the Philippines and the First Family. On occasion, the wing has also been tasked to provide transportation for other members of government, visiting heads of state, and other state guests.

The fleet includes: one Fokker F28, which is primarily used for the President's domestic trips and it is also called Kalayaan (Filipino "Freedom") One when the President is on board, one Fokker F27 aircraft, and seven Bell 412 helicopters. In October 2019, the government purchased an Airbus C-295 and a Gulfstream G280 for use by the President and other senior officials which were then delivered in April 2019 and September 2020 respectively. A Hawker 800XP business jet was donated by San Miguel Corporation in May 2022.

For trips outside of the Philippines, the President uses a Learjet 60, Challenger 850, Gulfstream G650ER or charters appropriate aircraft from Philippine Airlines. The aircraft with the flight number PR/PAL 001 and callsign PHILIPPINE 001/PILIPINAS 001 is a special aircraft operated by Philippine Airlines to transport the President. These aircraft have the Presidential Seal on the front left & front right door. The Airbus A321neo is used for short-haul flights, while the Airbus A330-300, Airbus A350-900 or Boeing 777-300ER are used for medium or long haul flights.

The presidential aircraft of Pres. Jose P. Laurel was a Mitsubishi MC-20. A PAAC Douglas C-47 Skytrain named Lili Marleen was designated as the presidential plane of Pres. Manuel Roxas. This aircraft crashed in May 1947, and a few months later was replaced by a C-47 of the newly formed Philippine Air Force. Pres. Elpidio Quirino used a plane named Laong Laan (Filipino "The Predestined") which during the Carlos P. Garcia administration was renamed Dagohoy. Pres. Ramon Magsaysay used two PAF C-47 presidential planes, the Pagasa (Filipino "Hope") and the Mt. Pinatubo. During the Diosdado Macapagal presidency the Pag-asa was renamed Common Man and was also used by Pres. Ferdinand Marcos. Prior to 1962, the Air Force chartered aircraft from Pan American World Airways as the international services of Philippine Airlines were suspended.

Toward the end of the Marcos administration, the squadron of presidential aircraft consisted of: one Boeing 707, one BAC One-Eleven, one NAMC YS-11 and one Fokker F28 Fellowship airliner; along with one Sikorsky S-62A, two Bell UH-1N, one Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma and two Sikorsky S-70AS helicopters. Pres. Corazon Aquino used some of these aircraft.

Singapore

The President, Prime Minister of Singapore and government officials typically travel on regular scheduled commercial or charter flights, mostly operated by Singapore's flag carrier, Singapore Airlines, Scoot or other commercial airlines depending on the location.^[60]^[61]

However, at the APEC Philippines 2015 summit, the then Prime Minister travelled on an Australian-registered Gulfstream G550.^[62]^[63]

Moreover, in case of need, the Singapore Government can count on the Republic of Singapore Air Force to provide airplanes such as the Airbus A330 MRTT and Fokker 50, specially retrofitted in passenger configurations.^{[citation needed]}

Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan President's private aircraft is called Sinhaya-1. This aircraft is a customized version of the Bombardier Global 5000 with extensive modifications for luxury and safety. The Bell 412 EPs helicopter is the President's preferred option and as a security measure the Presidential helicopter is always flown by a group of similar helicopters. One helicopter carries the president, while the others serve as decoys. These helicopters are arranged so that the location of the President is obscured after take-off. However, domestic travel for senior government officials and VIPs are provided by the No. 4 (VIP) Helicopter Squadron of the Sri Lanka Air Force using seven Bell 412EPs, Bell 206 or Mil Mi-17. Fixed wing transport aircraft of the Sri Lanka Air Force are used, such as the Y-12, Y-8 or C-130, in case of an emergency. In the post-World War II era, the de Havilland Heron, Douglas DC-3, de Havilland Dove, Westland WS-51 Dragonfly were used.

Taiwan

Air transportation for the president or other high-ranking officials of the Republic of China is operated by the Republic of China Air Force using a customized Boeing 737-800 delivered from Boeing in 2001 called the Air Force 3701.^[64] This aircraft operates out of Taipei's Songshan Airport and is not usually permitted to fly to countries without diplomatic relations with the ROC. Instead, a Boeing 777 or Airbus A350 operated by China Airlines or EVA Air is used, and is the type used for long-haul trips by the president and his/her staff. In addition, another three Fokker 50 turboprops perform the executive jet role for the Vice President of the Republic, premier, and other senior officials.^{[citation needed]}

Excluding the 737s, which fly under a Republic of China Air Force callsign, any commercial plane carrying the president carries its regular callsign, albeit with some changes.^{[citation needed]}

Aircraft	In Fleet	Orders
Boeing 777-300ER	1	—
Boeing 737-800	1	—
Airbus A350	1	—
Fokker 50	3	—
Total	6	—

Tajikistan

The government currently uses a Boeing 787 from the Mexican government for travel. Previously a Boeing 737 from national airline Somon Air was used.

Thailand

The Thai government operates, among others, (through Royal Thai Air Force's 602 Royal Guard Squadron) one Airbus A340-500, one Airbus A319CJ, two A320CJ, and two Embraer ERJ-135LR's as government transports. The A340-500, and the A319CJ are maintained by Thai Airways International, the Embraer ERJ-135LRs are maintained by Royal Thai Army.

The Royal Thai Air Force's 602 Royal Guard Squadron also operates a Boeing 737-800 for the Royal family flight.

Although available upon their request, members of the royal family usually fly on commercial flights operated by the national carrier, Thai Airways International, when traveling outside of the country.

All planes use a regular Thai Air Force callsign, "RTAF".

Timor-Leste

The government uses commercial aircraft for travel.

Turkmenistan

To transport the President and top officials of the state, Turkmenistan Airlines uses one Boeing 777-200LR of a special configuration (reg: EZ-A777), two Boeing 737-700 (reg: EZ-A007 and EZ-A700), one Bombardier CRJ700 Challenger 870 (reg: EZ-B024) and two Bombardier Challenger 605 (reg: EZ-B022 and EZ-B023).^[65]^{[verification needed]} The planes all use a special Turkmenistan Airlines callsign.^{[citation needed]}

Uzbekistan

As of December 2020^[update], the Uzbek government use two Airbus A320-200, one Boeing 767-300, and one Boeing 787-8 for VIP transport.

It previously also operated a Boeing 757 with the tail number 7O-VIP, which was sold to the Yemeni Government.

Aircraft	Quantity	Registration
Airbus A320-200	2	UK002 & UK32000
Boeing 767-300	1	UK67000
Boeing 787-8	1	UK001

Any aircraft with the president onboard uses the callsign "UZB1"

Vietnam

Vietnam has no dedicated airframe that is configured and used exclusively for VIP transport. Instead, the state uses general-purpose aircraft owned and commissioned by state-owned operators and armed forces' units for such special missions. It was designated that the General Secretary of the Communist Party, the President, Prime Minister and the Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam as well as equivalent representatives of other nations are objects to be served by such so-called "dignitary flights."^[66]

A Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (most commonly the one registered VN-A868)^[67] or sometimes an Airbus A350-900 XWB (registered VN-A896 or VN-A898)^[68] chartered from Vietnam Airlines is often used for international and long haul flights. For domestic and short haul flights, an Airbus A321 is chartered from the same carrier. The callsign Viet Nam One (VN1/HVN1) is often used when the flight is chartered by the government, especially to transport key people of the Vietnamese state. None of those Vietnam Airlines airframes are reportedly configured specifically for VIP or Head of State transport missions, instead, they are all operating commercial services on daily basis and state leaders use the "casual" business class and are served with standard civilian crews employed by Vietnam Airlines on such VIP flights.^{[citation needed]}

Helicopters of the Vietnam Helicopter Corporation and/or the Vietnam People's Air Force and/or the Vietnam People's Navy can also be used for VIP transport missions.^{[citation needed]}

Europe

Albania

In January 2020, the Turkish government leased an Airbus A319, registered TC-ANA, to the Albanian government for VIP transport. Although Albanian titles have been placed over the previous Turkish government livery, the aircraft retains its Turkish registration. The livery bears a striking resemblance to that of national airline Air Albania. This aircraft flies under the callsign "TRK8", which is otherwise used by the Turkish government when this A319 is not in use.

Andorra

The Andorran government does not operate any official aircraft, and the country does not even have an airport other than a small one near its border with Spain; however, former Prime Minister Antoni Martí once flew to a summit on a Spanish Air Force Boeing 707.

Austria

The government of Austria has never operated any dedicated government transport aircraft. Instead, the President, as well as the Chancellor and members of the government, fly on scheduled commercial flights, preferably using flag carrier Austrian Airlines, and occasionally chartering smaller aircraft or aircraft from other airlines depending on the location.^{[citation needed]}

There were plans in the late 1980s to acquire a BAe 146-100STA,^[69] which was capable of being converted into a VIP configuration; however, the already painted and registered aircraft was never flown to Austria, as the deal had to be cancelled due to political pressure which led to tensions within the Austrian Government.^[70] Domestic VIP flights were also operated by a four-seater Saab 105OE of the Austrian Air Force up until the late 1990s.^{[citation needed]}

Belarus

Belarusian flag carrier Belavia operates a Boeing 767-300ER, a Boeing 737-800 BBJ, a Bombardier Challenger 850^{[citation needed]} and a Gulfstream Aerospace G550^[71] on behalf of the government for use of the President and Prime Minister. In addition, a number of helicopters are also operated for domestic use by the President.^{[citation needed]}

All of these aircraft fly under four-digit Belavia (BRU) callsigns. In particular, the Boeing 767 uses the callsign "BRU8001/2"

The airline also operated a Tupolev Tu-154M aircraft before the acquisition of the current Boeing 767.^{[citation needed]}

Belgium

For the transport of the royal family and the members of the Government, Belgium uses one Dassault Falcon 900 and two Dassault Falcon 7X operated by the 15th Air Transport Wing of the Belgian Armed Forces,^[72] which fly under three-digit Belgian Air Force (BAF) callsigns. An Airbus A321^[72] and an Airbus A330 were previously operated, which were leased from Maltese airline Hi Fly.^{[citation needed]}

Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina operate a Cessna Citation I, a Cessna CitationJet and a Cessna Citation CJ4.^[73] Commercial flights are used for long-haul travel.^{[citation needed]}

Bulgaria

In Bulgaria, governmental VIP air transport is provided by the State Aviation Operator, which is a civilian state-owned company under the control of the Prime Minister of Bulgaria's office. As of 2018 it operates an Airbus A319, a Dassault Falcon 2000, 2 Mil Mi-8s and an Augusta AW-109 Power for use by the president, the prime minister and other state officials. A Tupolev Tu-154M was previously operated.

Any aircraft carrying the president usually flies under the callsign "BGF1"; however, when not transporting the president the aircraft usually fly under three-digit BGF callsigns.

Croatia

Pilots of the Croatian Air Force fly a low-visibility grey VIP-configured Challenger CL-604 9A-CRO business-jet, acquired in August 1997 to be used by the president, Government and Parliament officials, and other users upon the approval of the prime minister, especially in the case of flights for the transportation of organs or seriously injured persons.^[74] This aircraft flies under the callsign "9ACRO". Additionally, a Mil Mi-8-1 twin-turbine helicopter is occasionally used for the short-range travel within the country. Directorate for the Use of Official Aircraft is an expert service of the Government that operates the aircraft.^[75] Commercial aircraft are used for long-haul flights.^{[citation needed]}

Czech Republic

The Czech Air Force operates two Airbus A319CJs, and Mil Mi-8 helicopters for VIP transport, primarily that of the President, Prime Minister, and members of Government and Parliament of the Czech Republic.

Any aircraft carrying the president usually flies under the callsign "CEF1".

Cyprus

The government of Cyprus uses an Embraer ERJ-135 for travel, which was gifted by the Greek government in 2022 and flies under the callsign "CAF001". Previously aircraft such as a Dassault Falcon 2000 and commercial aircraft were used.

Denmark

The Royal Danish Air Force operates four Bombardier Challenger 604s for VIP transport, primarily that of the government and the Danish Royal Family. These aircraft are also used for environmental control and fishery control around Greenland and the North Sea. Furthermore, the Danish Royal Family have one AgustaWestland EH101 Merlin at their disposal. Ministers also fly on commercial airlines, such as Scandinavian Airlines. The planes usually fly under the callsign "DAF001/002".

Estonia

The government of Estonia uses private jets or commercial aircraft for travel. Prime Minister Kaja Kallas was spotted using a British A321 for use, along with the British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Finland

Finnish officials do not have individually allotted aircraft. The president and cabinet ministers usually travel on commercial flights for international travel. However, the Finnish Air Force operates three Learjet 35 aircraft with limited transport capability for use by senior government and military officials, and other aircraft from the Finnish Air Force can also be used. Helicopters of the Finnish Army or Coast Guard are used to provide transport to senior officials on some domestic trips.^[76]

Prime minister Juha Sipilä, an avid aviator, also made official trips with aircraft that he has personally flown and paid for, such as a Cessna CitationJet/M2 525^[77] and a Scanwings Cessna 525 (OH-SWI). The longest trip was to Ulaan Baatar in 2016.^[78] The government leases private jets from companies such as Jetflite.^{[citation needed]}

France

The Escadron de Transport 60, formerly Escadron de transport, d'entrainement et de calibration 00.065 (ETEC 65, "Transportation, training and calibration squadron"), is the unit of the French Air Force, under direct command of the Minister of Defence, in charge of the transportation of the President, the Prime Minister and other French government officials.

The squadron operates four Dassault Falcon 50s, two Dassault Falcon 900s, two Dassault Falcon 7Xs and four Airbus A330-200. Additionally, the unit operates three VIP-configured Super Puma helicopters.

French officials also use the aircraft of the Escadron de transport 3/60 Esterel, which operates three Airbus A310-304 and two Airbus A340-200s.

Both Airbus A340-200 aircraft have been sold to Kenya for AMREF Flying Doctors. Finally, the French Air Force use 8 A330 MRTT for military purposes.

Any aircraft carrying the President usually flies under the callsign CTM1.

Germany

The fleet used by Germany's senior government officials consists of 15 aircraft:

Airbus A350-900	3
Airbus A319-133X CJ	2
Airbus A321-200	1
Bombardier Global 5000	3
Bombardier Global 6000	3
Eurocopter AS532 Cougar	3

Until 2011 Germany's government officials used two Airbus A310-304 VIP carrying the same names, previously of East Germany's Interflug. They used two Airbus A340-313X VIP aircraft until 2023, previously of Germany's Lufthansa, redesigned by Lufthansa Technik in a VIP configuration, including sleeping rooms and an anti-missile system.^[79] The aircraft are named after Konrad Adenauer, the first chancellor of (West) Germany, and Theodor Heuss, its first President. In April 2019, the German Air Force ordered three Airbus A350-900 as their new government planes and as a replacement for the aging A340s.

In Summer 2019, the Luftwaffe also ordered three Bombardier Global 6000 as an addition to the existing fleet.

The planes fly under German Air Force callsigns.

Greece

Greece's prime minister has a Gulfstream V at his disposal, which is under the operational command of the Hellenic Air Force. The aircraft was bought by the government of Costas Simitis for the needs of Greece's 2003 EU presidency and the preparations of the 2004 Olympic Games. The VIP transport squadron (112 Combat Wing at the Elefsis Air Force Base) of the Hellenic Air Force also operates two Embraer business jets. For long haul flights the Prime Minister and other officials used one of the Airbus A340-300s of the government-owned Olympic Airlines when they were still in service. The A340 aircraft were used for the official visit of the Greek Prime Minister to Australia in 2007.

Two other aircraft used over the last two decades for the same purpose raised controversy. A Dassault Falcon 900 had a range of technical problems culminating in an accident that killed the deputy minister of foreign affairs Giannos Kranidiotis and five other people due to severe in-flight pitch oscillations 20 minutes before landing at Bucharest on 9 September 1999.^[80]

Under executive order 2954/28-8-12, the Greek government bestowed the 30-seat Embraer to the Hellenic Air Force to be used for pilot training, patient airlift and organ transplant transportation.

In 2021 the Hellenic Air Force added a Falcon 7X to its fleet for VIP transport duties.

The planes fly under normal Hellenic Air Force callsigns.

Hungary

The Hungarian government uses two Dassault Falcon 7X and two Airbus A319 airliners, which are operated by the Hungarian Air Force and fly under its callsigns (HUAF).

Iceland

The government uses commercial aircraft and private aircraft for travel.

Ireland

The Irish Ministerial Air Transport Service (MATS) is part of the Irish Air Corps, it provides secure transport to the President of Ireland, the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, and members of the government and their staff, both within and outside Ireland.

A Learjet 45 is currently used. Until recently, a Gulfstream IV was also part of the fleet.^[81] The Air Corps AW139 helicopters are also used as government transport.^[82] The planes fly under an Irish Air Corps callsign.

Italy

The Italian Air Force operates three Airbus A319 Corporate Jets, three Dassault Falcon 900s and two Dassault Falcon 50s for government transport. Two AgustaWestland AW139s are operated for use by the President and government officials, and are also used by the Pope. An Airbus A340-500 was leased for longer-distance trips in 2016 and phased out in 2018. All aircraft and helicopters are operated by the 31st Wing based in Rome Ciampino Airport.^[83]

The planes fly under the callsign "IAM9001" when transporting the Head of State.

Liechtenstein

The government tends not to travel a lot; however, commercial aircraft is used if necessary.

Lithuania

The president and the government of Lithuania use one of the three Alenia C-27J Spartans of the Lithuanian Air Force in a passenger configuration,^[84] which flies under a Lithuanian Air Force callsign. For longer trips, commercial aircraft are used.

Luxembourg

A private Cessna 550 Citation II, a Learjet 35A or even a 737-700 chartered from the flag carrier Luxair are sometimes used for governmental flights.^[85] Other than that, commercial aircraft is used, for example Prime Minister Xavier Bettel used a Vietnam Airlines plane to travel to Vietnam for a working visit.^[86]

Malta

The government uses a Learjet for travel, which flies under the callsign "JLN".

Moldova

In the 1990s, the Moldovan government operated a single Tupolev TU-134 for use by the government. In the 2000s, it was retired, and the Moldovan government leased an Air Moldova Yakovlev Yak-40 for VIP use. That was retired too, and the most recent aircraft used by the President or Prime Minister is an Air Moldova Airbus A320 family jet, which uses an Air Moldova callsign. President Maia Sandu was spotted taking low-cost carrier Wizz Air on a flight to Brussels.^[87]

Monaco

The Prince and the Monegasque government (including the Minister of State) use a Dassault Falcon 7X based in Nice Côte d'Azur Airport in France.

Since 2018 the prince and the government of Monaco uses a Dassault Falcon 8X with the same registration – 3A-MGA, which replaced a Dassault Falcon 900 also. The aircraft uses its registration as a callsign.

Montenegro

The Government of Montenegro operates one Learjet 45 for VIP transport. registration 4O-MNE. It uses its registration as a callsign.

Netherlands

The government of the Netherlands operates as Dutch government aircraft [nl] a Boeing 737 BBJ as a means of transport for the Dutch Royal family and government officials such as the prime minister and other ministers. It is used not only to attend international conferences but also for private trips by King Willem-Alexander (who is a licensed commercial pilot type rated to fly the 737) and Queen Maxima. This aircraft, registered PH-GOV (GOVernment), was introduced in 2019 at a cost of 89m euros.^[88]^[89] A Fokker 70 registered PH-KBX (Koningin Beatrix) had been operated, but was retired in May 2017 in line with the withdrawal of the Fokker 70 from the fleet of KLM Cityhopper which had maintained the aircraft.^[90] Prior to the introduction of the Fokker 70, a Fokker F28 Fellowship registered PH-PBX (Princess BeatriX) had been used.

A Gulfstream G650ER of the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) is also available.

The planes use their registrations as callsigns.

North Macedonia

The government of North Macedonia operated a Learjet 25B and a Learjet 60 in 2015.^[16] The planes use their registrations as callsigns.

Norway

The air transport of the King and Prime Minister of Norway is mostly handled by commercial airliners with the VIPs travelling in business or first class. However, the Norwegian government will charter small private jets for government ministers when needed. The Royal Norwegian Air Force 717 Squadron at Rygge Air Station formerly maintain one Dassault Falcon 20 (5–9 passengers) for VIP transport of the royal family, ministers and armed forces senior staff. This plane flew under regular Norwegian Air Force callsigns, albeit with some changes.

Poland

As of June 2022, the Polish Government operates a fleet of five aircraft for VIP transport. This includes two Boeing BBJ2 in custom configuration for 65 passengers and featuring secure communication systems as well as anti-missile defense systems, one reconfigured Boeing 737-800NG with 132 seats, and two Gulfstream G550 each capable of carrying 16 passengers. The aircraft are operated and maintained by the Polish Air Force 1st Airlift Air Base.^[91]^[92]

During communist rule in the People's Republic of Poland the aircraft used for head of state transport included Lisunov Li-2, Ilyushin Il-14, Il-18, Tupolev Tu-134A, Yakovlev Yak-40. From 1990 the Polish Air Force operated two modified Tupolev Tu-154M Lux, additionally a number of Yakovlev Yak-40 and PZL M28 Bryza fixed-wing aircraft, Mil Mi-8, PZL W-3 Sokół and Bell 412 helicopters were used by 36th Special Aviation Regiment in Warsaw. On 4 December 2003, a Polish Air Force Mil Mi-8 carrying prime minister Leszek Miller crashed in a forest near Warsaw. Even though the helicopter was lost, all 15 people on board survived. Tu-154M tail number 101, carrying the President of Poland Lech Kaczyński, crashed in April 2010, killing him and everyone on board. The remaining Tu-154M and all Yak-40s were retired in 2011, while the 36th Regiment was disbanded.^[93] Due to lack of the VIP fleet both the president and prime minister often used Polish Air Force EADS CASA C-295Ms for domestic flight and due to civil aviation restrictions.^[94]

Between June 2010 and December 2018 the Government of Poland used two Embraer ERJ-175LR (ERJ-170-200LR) leased from LOT Polish Airlines to carry out state flights. Since 2012 Polish Air Force 1st Airlift Air Base in Warsaw-Okecie operates VIP helicopters for domestic transportation and since 2018 the long range passenger jets. The HEAD instruction for organizing the flights within the Polish Armed Forces gives the HEAD flight status when there is the president, prime minister or the parliament speakers on board. The flights carried by LOT are operated with both the rules of the civil procedures and in line with the unofficial civil HEAD instruction.^[95]

Portugal

The Portuguese Air Force operates three Dassault Falcon 50s for use by the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister, as well as cabinet members and other dignitaries when appropriate. They are operated by the 504 Squadron "Linces", permanently deployed at the AT1 (the military terminal of the Lisbon Airport). In 2023, a Dassault Falcon 900, arrested in a drug trafficking legal case, was added to the 504 Squadron's fleet.

For similar use, the Portuguese Air Force used to maintain three Dassault Falcon 20s, bought from FedEx as cargo aircraft and converted to VIP configuration, but maintaining the outsize cargo door. These aircraft are no longer operational, the last one being used as an aeronautical navigation calibration aircraft. These aircraft also flew under Portuguese Air Force callsigns.

Besides being used as VIP transportation, the Falcon 50s are also used for long range emergency human organ transports and aeromedical evacuation, mainly connecting the Portuguese mainland with the islands of Azores and Madeira.

In long haul travels, the Portuguese heads of state often fly in modern Airbus A330-900 and other long range planes from TAP Air Portugal.

Romania

Romania operated one Boeing 707 for the President, a BAC 1-11 mostly for the prime minister, and a SA-365 Dauphin for internal transport. The operator of these flights was the Ministry of National Defense, the owner of Romavia.

When Romavia was shut down in October 2010, the presidential administration began chartering an Airbus A310-300 from TAROM, most notably one registered YR-LCB, which flew under a special TAROM callsign.

As of 2016 with the retirement of the Airbus A310 from TAROM's fleet, Romania no longer has an official aircraft, but a project to acquire one or more has been approved.

Russia

The Russia State Transport Company operates two Ilyushin Il-96-300PU for use of the President of Russia.

At least one of the aircraft was refitted as a VIP transport in 2001 by a British company for a price of GBP 10 million.^{[citation needed]}.

The Russian government fleet consists of the following aircraft (April 2016):

Aircraft	In Fleet	Orders
Airbus ACJ319	2	—
Antonov An-148	2	—
Dassault Falcon 7X	2	—
Ilyushin Il-96-300	8	—
Ilyushin IL-62	8	—
Sukhoi Superjet 100	2	—
Tupolev Tu-204-300	2	—
Tupolev Tu-214	13	—
Total	31	—

These aircraft all fly under the callsign "RSD".

Serbia

The Government Aviation Service (Avio-služba Vlade) is responsible for transporting the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister abroad (outside the country). It operates a two-plane fleet, consisting of Embraer Legacy 600 and a Learjet 31. The Police Helicopter Unit (Helikopterska jedinica) is responsible for transporting the President, Prime Minister and Minister of Internal Affairs within the country, for which purpose it uses two helicopters: an Airbus H215 and a Sikorsky S-76.

Slovakia

The Slovak Government Flying Service operates two Airbus A319 – 115 ACE and two Fokker 100. It also operates one Bell 429 helicopter for Slovak Police and two Mil-171 helicopters for use by the President, Prime Minister and government officials. All planes under the Slovak Government Flying Service use the callsign "SSG", with "SSG1" used to denote a plane carrying a VIP.

Slovenia

The Slovenian Armed Forces operate a Dassault Falcon 2000 EX state registration number: L1-01 (MSN: 15) for VIP transport, primarily of the President, Prime Minister, and members of the Government. The Government has decided in early 2015 to use the aircraft also for medical transportation of body organs. Another aircraft that is used for short flights and as a transport for military officers is the Let L-410 Turbolet state registration number: L4-01 (MSN: 912606). The Dassault Falcon 2000 flies under the callsign "LSV101" and the Let L-410 flies under the callsign "LSV401".

Spain

The Spanish Air and Space Force operates two customized Airbus A310s^[96] and five Falcon 900s, it also operates four AS332 Super Puma and two AS532UL Cougar for transportation of the King, his family, the Prime Minister and high-ranking government officials. These transportation services are provided by the 45th Group of the Air Force, based in Torrejón Air Base, 24 kilometers (15 mi) from Madrid and 402 Squadron of the 48th Wing, located at Cuatro Vientos Air Base respectively.

In 2021 three Airbus A330 MRTT were acquired, one of which went through the conversion process; the other two have been used for different purposes, including intermittent VIP transportation.

The replacement of the Falcon 900Bs is also being considered. Between May and June 2024 there has been speculation about the purchase of Gulfstream G650 and Pilatus PC-24 aircraft; however, no news is official.

Usually when the Prime Minister and high-ranking officials travel outside Europe, they use the Airbus A310 and one of the Falcon 900s as a support aircraft. The planes use the current Spanish Air Force callsign "AME".

Previously, Spanish Air Force Boeing KC-707Cs and Falcon 50 were used.

Sweden

The Swedish Air Force Transport Squadron Bromma (Stockholm), based on Stockholm-Bromma Airport in Stockholm Municipality, operates the State Flight (Swedish: Statsflyget). It forms part of the Transport and Special Flying Unit (TSFE, Swedish: Transport och Specialflygenheten), which in its turn is a part of the Skaraborg Wing (F 7). Currently it operates two Gulfstream IV aircraft and one Gulfstream G550 in the VIP transport role.^[97]

The Air Force also operates three Saab 340 in the VIP transport role.

The use of the State Flight is regulated in the State Flight Ordinance (Swedish: Statsflygsförordningen) issued by the Government of Sweden.^[98] All aircraft serve the official transport needs of the King and other members of the Swedish Royal Family, the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers, and senior Swedish Armed Forces officers.

They also fly scheduled flights, then using business class and using VIP area for check in and security check.

All planes use a regular Swedish Air Force callsign, SVF.

Switzerland

The Lufttransportdienst des Bundes (LTDB) (English: Swiss Federal Government's air transport service), a unit of the Swiss Air Force located at Bern Airport, operates a fleet of VIP transport aircraft:^[99]

one Dassault Falcon 900EX EASy II (T-785)
one Cessna 560XL Citation Excel (T-784)
two Bombardier Challenger 604 (T-751, T-752), for transport and medical evacuation
one Beechcraft Model 350C Super King Air (T-721), non VIP transport, located at the Dübendorf Air Base
one Bombardier Global 7500 ordered

These aircraft are mainly used by members of the Swiss Federal Council. Travel arrangements are coordinated by the Government Travel Centre in the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs. A Swiss-built PC-24 of Pilatus Aircraft was used between 2019 and 2022.^[100] The Beechcraft 1900D was replaced in 2020 by two Canadair CL-604 previously operated by Rega.^[101] All of these aircraft are based at Bern Airport. The Citation Excel will be replaced in 2025 by a Bombardier Global 7500 purchased by the government for 109 million dollars.^[102]

The 6th Air Transport Squadron, flying from the Alpnach Air Base, also operates two Eurocopter EC635 as VIP transport helicopters and has a number of Super Puma helicopters at its disposal, one of which is configured constantly as a VIP transport for domestic use and another one can be configured for VIP transport. Before the introduction of the EC635s, a Eurocopter Dauphin was used as a VIP helicopter.

The planes use the callsign "SUI".

Ukraine

The President of Ukraine, along with high-ranking Ukrainian government officials are allotted two aircraft: an Airbus A319-100 (registered UR-ABA) and an Antonov An-148 (registered UR-UKR), both of which were originally operated by Ukraine Air Enterprise, under the state-owned State Management of Affairs.^{[citation needed]} The An-148, along with an Mi-8MTV-1, was transferred to Ukrainian Ministry of Defence in 2021.^[103] The planes use the callsign "UKN".

However, following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine military hostilities in 2022, president Volodymyr Zelenskyy opted to use an assortment of different transport aircraft offered by NATO-members states over the Ukrainian state-owned A319 for international visits, ostensibly for security reasons.^{[citation needed]} The A319 was not summoned for presidential transport until September 2023, when Zelenskyy used it to travel to the United States to attend the 78th session of the UN General Assembly; it was the first time that the plane had been summoned for presidential transport during wartime.^[104]

Between 2022 and 2023, Zelenskyy used the following aircraft:

Aircraft	Service-of-origin	Visit
2022
Boeing C-40B Clipper	United States Air Force	21 December visit to the United States^[105]
2023
Boeing C-17 Globemaster III	Royal Air Force	8 February visit to the United Kingdom^[106]
Airbus A321	Royal Air Force	8–9 February connecting visit to France^[107]
Dassault Falcon 7X	French Air and Space Force	9 February connecting visit from to Belgium^[108]
Boeing 737 BBJ	Royal Netherlands Air Force	3–4 May visit to the Netherlands^[109]
Airbus A319CJ	Italian Air Force	13–14 May visit to Italy^[110]
Airbus A330-200	French Air and Space Force	2023 Arab League summit, Jeddah;^[111] 2023 G7 summit, Hiroshima^[112]
Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules	Royal Danish Air Force	20–21 August visit to Denmark^[113]

United Kingdom

The British Government and Royal Family have use of an Airbus A330 Voyager,^[114] two Dassault 900LX and an Airbus A321LR for official travel. The King's Helicopter Flight also provides two Sikorsky S-76+.

The A330 is the single VIP variant of the A330 MRTT operated by the Royal Air Force and AirTanker^[115] for air refueling and military transport. The Voyager was reconfigured to include a secure satellite communications system, missile detection, conference facilities, 58 business class seats and 100 economy seats but retains its primary role for the Royal Air Force.^[116] No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron of the RAF maintains an Agusta A109SP helicopter for use principally by the British Armed Forces. Until March 2022, the squadron operated four BAe 146s, which have been replaced by two Dassault 900LX aircraft.^[117] The A321 is owned and operated by Titan Airways^[118] on behalf of the UK Government.

On visits to Commonwealth realms – such as Australia, Canada and New Zealand – the Royal Family have often used the VIP aircraft of the host nation.

Vatican City/Holy See

Typically, the Pope flies on a chartered ITA Airways fixed-wing aircraft when travelling to or from more distant destinations and making pastoral and state visits to a country. Prior to 2021, the Pope flew on chartered Alitalia flights before the airline ceased operations in that year and later reorganized into ITA Airways.^{[citation needed]} Traditional protocol dictates that a Pope flies to a country he is visiting on a chartered ITA Airways jet and to return on a jet belonging to a flag carrier from the visited nation; this may vary when he is touring multiple nations. When Pope John Paul II visited South America in May 1988, he travelled to Paraguay from Peru in an AeroPerú DC-8, but left Asunción International Airport back to Europe in a transcontinental Alitalia Boeing 747, which was brought in just hours before his farewell ceremony. Líneas Aéreas Paraguayas' longest-range aircraft at the time were Boeing 707-320Bs, which had to stop in Dakar, Senegal to refuel. However, he politely travelled within the country in a LAP jet, which incidentally carried the distinguished visitor's coat of arms in the forward fuselage as courtesy. Pope Benedict XVI also returned to Rome from Brazil on Alitalia.

The call sign of a papal flight within Italy is "volo papale" ("papal flight" in Italian) followed by the number of flights the pope has made. Pope John Paul II made 104 papal flights, so his call sign would have been "Volo Papale 104".^[119] The pope also uses a helicopter of the Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare), an AgustaWestland AW139, for short distances. There are two papal heliports, with the Vatican City Heliport being on the tiny state's western corner, and another on the southern edge of the extraterritorial papal residence of Castel Gandolfo. The former bears the official Latin designation Portus Helicopterorum.

Papal flights within the United States or chartered on a U.S. airline may be given the callsign "Shepherd One" by the Federal Aviation Administration.^[120]^[121]^[122]^[123] The Shepherd One callsign was also used by the Philippine Airlines Airbus A340-300 of Pope Francis when he departed from the Philippines.

Middle East

Algeria

The Algerian Air Force operates a small fleet of aircraft for use by the President and government officials, the largest of which is an Airbus A340-500. This aircraft was purchased during the presidency of Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who only used it once before it was mothballed for several years. It has now been returned to regular use after the inauguration of current President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Other, smaller aircraft that can be used include 2 ATR 72s, one Gulfstream G-V, and 3 Gulfstream G-IVs. Formerly used aircraft include an Ilyushin Il-18V and a Dassault Falcon 20C. Officials also occasionally use aircraft from national airline Air Algérie for travel as well.

All government aircraft use their registrations as callsigns.

Bahrain

The Bahrain Royal Flight and Bahrain Defense Force operate 2 Boeing 747-400s, 1 Boeing 767-400, 1 Boeing 737-800, 5 BAe-146 of various modifications and 3 Gulfstream Aerospace (G450, G550, G650) for VIP transportation of the Bahraini royal family.

The 747-400s typically under the callsigns "BAH1"/2", the 767-400 under "BAH3", the Gulfstream G450 under "BAH4", the Gulfstream G550 under "BAH5", the Gulfstream G650 under "BAH6"/7", and the Avro RJ85 under "BAH8".

Egypt

The government of Egypt operated an Airbus A340-200 along with a number of business jets including the Gulfstream IV and Dassault Falcon 20s in 2015.^[124]

The first presidential aircraft in Egypt was a gift from Saudi Arabia to President Anwar Sadat. Before that, President Gamal Abdel Nasser, traveled using a rented aircraft from Egyptair.

On 10 September 2021, it was announced that the Egyptian government had acquired a Boeing 747-8I, registered SU-EGY for use as a VIP transport aircraft. The 747, which had originally been ordered by Lufthansa as D-ABYE, had not been accepted by the airline and spent a number of years in the Mojave Desert as N828BA.^{[citation needed]}

In addition to Egyptian Air Force aircraft, a number of aircraft are directly under government control to transfer the president of Egypt, presidential logistics, the prime minister and members of the government, including:

Aircraft	Origin	In Service
fixed-wing
Boeing 747-8	USA	1
Airbus A340-200	France	1
Beechcraft Super King Air	USA	4
Boeing 707	USA	1
Boeing 737-800	USA	4
Dassault Falcon 20	France	3
Dassault Falcon 7X	France	4
Dassault Falcon 8X	France	1
Gulfstream III	USA	2
Gulfstream IV	USA	4
VC-130H Hercules	USA	1
Helicopters
Sikorsky H-3 Sea King	USA	2
Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk	USA	2
Westland Commando MK-2B	UK	2

Any aircraft carrying the president, mostly the A340, flies under the callsign "EGY1".

Iran

Until the early 2010s, the supreme leader, the president and other high-ranking government officials of Iran were still using the aged but famous Shahin, a special VIP designed Boeing 707 which was ordered and purchased by the Shah in the 1970s. It was initially far more luxuriously outfitted than US Air Force One (also a Boeing 707 at the time), but after the Iranian Revolution in 1979 it was redesigned as a normal VIP aircraft. Another VIP airliner, an Airbus A321 which was purchased during the 1990s, is also used on medium range trips of high officials such as the Foreign Minister, the Speaker of Parliament and the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. The other VIP aircraft in use by the government consist of one Dassault Falcon 20, three Dassault Falcon 50s and a Lockheed JetStar all operated by the Iranian Air Force, and an Airbus A340-300, operated (along with the A321) by Meraj Airlines. The government had also occasionally chartered an A340-300 from Mahan Air prior to the acquisition of the A340-300.

As of 2022, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei owns four planes: Airbus A340-313, Dassault Falcon 50, Dassault Falcon 900EX and the Airbus A321-231.

Any aircraft carrying the President uses the callsign "IRAN02".

Iraq

As of 2020, the government of Iraq operates a Boeing 737-800.

Prior to 2014, it used a Boeing 767-200 and an Airbus A310.

President Saddam Hussein had his own personal Boeing 747SP for his travel as well as few Boeing 727s and Dassault Falcons for governmental use. Now, they travel on either a Boeing 737-800 or a Boeing 767-300ER from Iraqi Airways.

The current 737 flies under the callsign "IPF", short for "Iraqi Presidential Office".

Israel

Since 1948, senior officials of the Israel government, including the President and the Prime Minister, have either travelled on military aircraft supplied by the Israeli government or on commercially-chartered aircraft.^[125]

In the early years of Israel's existence, prime minister David Ben-Gurion travelled using military aircraft belonging to the Israeli Air Force (IAF), such as the Douglas DC-3.^[125]^[126] However, in the 1960s, the IAF chose to use a specially-adapted Boeing 377 Stratocruiser, for ministerial travel abroad.^[125] From the 1970s onwards, government officials were transported internationally using second-hand Boeing 707 aircraft, which were purchased beforehand from commercial airlines and specifically configured for VIP transportation.^[125] The 707 was retired by the IAF in 2001.^[127]

Beginning from the 2000s, senior Israeli government officials have been transported abroad using commercial airliners leased by the Ministry of Defense from El Al.^[128] For short-range international flights, El Al's inventory of Boeing 737 aircraft have been customarily used, while the larger wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 767 and 777 have been supplied for long-range transcontinental travel.^[125] Nonetheless, this practice has been criticized for its annual incurrence of high costs stemming from leasing and transportation, in addition to the planes' lack of secure communication facilities.^[129]^[127]

In April 2014, Israel's Cabinet approved a decision to procure an aircraft dedicated exclusively for the transport of the president and the prime minister.^[130] The move, which specified the purchase of a second-hand airliner and its reconfiguration for VIP transport, was initially estimated to cost around NIS 393 million.^[125] In 2016, Israel purchased a second-hand Boeing 767-300ER originally operated by Qantas, which had first flown in 2000.^[131] The 767, dubbed the Knaf Zion (Wing of Zion) was retrofitted with infrared missile-defense countermeasures and a secure communications suite over a span of two years, and first flew in November 2019.^[131]^[132]

Jordan

The members of the royal family and government officials use an Airbus A318-112 Elite. They also can use either private aircraft or other government aircraft at their disposal. The Jordanian King has also been known to use a UAE Boeing 777-200 belonging to the Amiri Flight Wing.

Any plane carrying the royal family or government flies under a Royal Jordanian callsign "RJA" or the registration.

Kuwait

Until April 2013, the Emir of Kuwait used a Boeing 747-400; since then he has used either one of two Airbus A340-500 airframes equipped with military defense equipment to protect the aircraft from any potential attacks, or since 2016, a Boeing 747-8 equipped similarly to the A340s. The aircraft are also used by the Crown Prince of Kuwait.

The rest of the official state aircraft used by senior ruling family members and cabinet members consist of:

Aircraft	Quantity
Airbus A319	1
Airbus A320	1
Airbus A340-500	2
Boeing 737-900ER	1
Boeing 747-8	1
Gulfstream G550	1

These aircraft all fly under "KUG" (Kuwaiti Government) callsigns with some differences.

Lebanon

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