This plane of PM Modi is a "moving office in the sky"! How much does it cost and who all travel on it? Learn the full details..
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Israel brought India's most secure and high-tech aircraft into the spotlight. Its name is Air India One, operated by the Indian Air Force.
This is the special aircraft PM Modi uses on his foreign trips and is considered comparable to US President Donald Trump's Air Force One in terms of security. The question now is who flies this aircraft and who can travel on it. And how safe is it?
Who flies the Prime Minister's plane?
The Air India aircraft is flown by specially trained pilots of the Indian Air Force.
There are usually four pilots on each flight.
A team of doctors and special security personnel is also present.
The operation and security of the aircraft are entirely under the control of the Air Force, not Air India's commercial staff.
How many times has Modi traveled abroad?
Since becoming Prime Minister for the first time in May 2014, Narendra Modi has made more than 100 foreign trips. According to media reports, approximately ₹518 crore was spent on foreign trips between 2014 and 2019. Meanwhile, international interest in Air India One has also increased.
Which aircraft is Air India One?
Model: Boeing 777-300ER
Total aircraft: 2 (inducted in 2020)
Cost: Approximately ₹8,400 crore
Range: Approximately 13,500 km non-stop
Speed: Approximately 900 km/h
These aircraft have replaced the older Boeing 747-400, which was previously used for official visits by the Prime Minister and President.
What is its most significant feature?
Air India One is not just an aircraft, but a "mobile office in the sky."
Security Systems:
Advanced electronic warfare systems to protect against missile attacks
Radar and heat-seeking missile protection
Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS)
238 miles of special cabling to protect against nuclear explosions
Technological Capabilities:
Air-to-air refueling
Secure and non-interceptable communication systems
Ability to function as a mobile command center in an emergency
Indoor Amenities:
Conference rooms and offices
Large bedrooms and lounges
Medical emergency room
Enough food storage for approximately 2,000 people
What are VIP-1, VIP-2, and VIP-3?
On an Air India One flight:
President: VIP-1
Vice President: VIP-2
Prime Minister: VIP-3
They have a separate executive enclosure, which includes an office and bedroom. Other passengers are required to wear color-coded identification cards.
Other VIP aircraft are also available.
The Air Force also has aircraft like the Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) and ERJ-135 for domestic and short international trips. The Prime Minister typically uses the BBJ, named "Ambassador," but the 777-300ER is chosen for longer and more sensitive trips.
Why is Modi's visit to Israel special?
Air India One's role becomes even more crucial during a visit to a strategically and security-sensitive country like Israel. This aircraft not only ensures the Prime Minister's safe transport but also keeps him fully connected and active throughout the journey.
Air India One has today become a flying symbol of India's strength, technological prowess, and global presence. When PM Modi embarks on a significant visit like to Israel, it's not just an aircraft that flies with him, but also India's security and prestige.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Dainik Jagran. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
