Who Flies The Flying Fortress That Costs $1 Billion?

Air India One, a state-of-the-art Boeing 777-300ER, serves as the airborne office for India’s President, Vice President, and Prime Minister.

Air India One, a state-of-the-art Boeing 777-300ER, serves as the airborne office for India’s President, Vice President, and Prime Minister. It represents not only national prestige but also cutting-edge security and luxury, carrying the aspirations of over a billion people.

Nicknamed the “Flying Fortress,” Air India One is valued at a staggering Rs 8,400 crore. Since October 2020, the two customized Boeing 777-300ER jets have replaced the aging Boeing 747s. Unlike their predecessors, these aircraft are military-owned and operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF), with maintenance managed by Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL).

These planes are an “office in the sky,” boasting secure communication systems, advanced defense capabilities, and luxurious interiors. From secure conference rooms to fully equipped medical facilities and a bedroom for the VVIPs, Air India One ensures uninterrupted work and comfort during long-haul flights.

State-of-the-Art Features

Security Systems:

Advanced Electronic Warfare Suites for protection against missile threats.
Missile Approach Warning Systems (MAWS) and Countermeasure Dispensing Systems (CMDs). Electromagnetic shielding to withstand nuclear events.

Technical Capabilities:

Mid-air refueling for extended travel.
Unhackable communication systems enabling secure connectivity.

Luxurious Interior:

Meeting rooms, private lounges, and a large bedroom.
Medical emergency facilities.
Capacity to carry enough food for 2,000 people.

Range & Speed:

Can travel 13,500 kilometers without refueling at a maximum cruising speed of 900 km/h.

Operation and Piloting
Air India One is piloted by elite Indian Air Force personnel, specially trained for VVIP operations. Each flight typically includes four pilots, medical professionals, and a security team, including members of the Special Protection Group (SPG). These planes are stationed at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, when not in use.

Color-Coded Protocols for Onboard Officials

Passengers on Air India One flights follow a strict identity system:

Purple Tags: Senior officials (Joint Secretary level and above) and SPG personnel in first class.

Pink Tags: Junior officials in business-class seating.

Red and Yellow Tags: Support staff and press pool seated in economy-class equivalent areas.

Beyond Air India One: Other VIP Aircraft
For shorter trips, Indian leaders and senior officials also use Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) and Embraer Legacy 600 aircraft:

The Prime Minister’s preferred domestic aircraft is the Boeing 737 BBJ, named “Rajdoot.”

The President uses “Rajkamal,” while the Vice President flies aboard “Rajhans.”

Ministers of Home, External Affairs, Finance, and Defence use Embraer Legacy 600 jets named Meghadoot, Vayudoot, Nabhdoot, and Gagandoot, respectively.

Symbol of Strength and Diplomacy
Air India One symbolizes India’s sovereignty and global ambitions. It provides unmatched safety and efficiency for its leaders, serving as a mobile command center and a bridge for governance and diplomacy. With advanced technology and unparalleled luxury, the Flying Fortress ensures that India’s leaders soar high, representing the dreams of an entire nation.

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