Advisory issued to journalists not to steal souvenirs from US President’s official aircraft

New Delhi, Apr 1: After an inventory check on Air Force One after President Joe Biden's recent visit to the US West Coast in February, a concerning trend emerged: several items were reported missing from the aircraft's press section.

Among the vanished items are branded pillowcases, glasses, and gold-rimmed plates, prompting the White House Correspondents' Association to issue a stern warning against such actions.

The association emphasised that taking items from the presidential plane is strictly forbidden, highlighting the negative impression it casts on the press pool - the group of journalists who accompany the president during his travels. Last month, reporters received an email from the association highlighting the need to cease this behaviour immediately, BBC reported.

While journalists are occasionally provided with small packages of M&M chocolates adorned with the presidential seal as legitimate souvenirs, reports suggest that the pilfering of items bearing the Air Force One logo, including cutlery and towels, has been a common practice for years.

Air Force One, the official aircraft of the President of the United States, stands as a symbol of power, prestige, and mobility. With its distinctive blue and white livery and the iconic presidential seal emblazoned on its fuselage, Air Force One commands attention wherever it lands. This highly customized Boeing 747-200B aircraft serves as more than just a mode of transportation for the president; it is a flying command centre equipped with state-of-the-art communication systems, advanced avionics, and defensive capabilities to ensure the safety and security of the commander-in-chief.

Inside Air Force One's spacious interior, the president enjoys luxurious accommodations, including an extensive suite, conference and dining rooms, and even a medical facility equipped with an operating table. The aircraft also features two food preparation galleys capable of feeding up to 100 people at a time, ensuring that the president and accompanying staff are well taken care of during long flights. One of the most remarkable features of Air Force One is its ability to refuel mid-air, allowing it to fly non-stop for extended periods, even in the event of an emergency.