Contrary to what people think, Air Force One can be tracked, but there are caveats

Amazingly, Air Force One – the tech-filled flying fortress used by the US president – can indeed be tracked.

A lot of people would naturally assume this wouldn’t be possible, but it is.

But there are obvious caveats.

And yes, you can also find it on Flightradar.

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Yes, it can be tracked, but with caveats

Air Force One is a flying fortress that, as the Department of Homeland Security explains, can technically fly ‘for years’ because it can refuel mid-air.

Even though, ironically, Air Force One is believed to have never been refueled mid-air.

But that’s beside the point because the point is Air Force One can indeed be tracked. Although there are several ifs, buts, and caveats.

Generally speaking, data about Air Force One can be available on sites that aviation enthusiasts use, such as Flightradar.

However, there are a few things to bear in mind.

For starters, the aircraft is fitted with redundant transponders and systems designed to broadcast the aircraft’s identity and location.

But the transponder code can often be delayed or withheld completely, or it can go ‘dark’ to avoid threats.

Translated in plain English, it means that yes, you can track Air Force One, but you’re going to see what the US national security apparatus wants you to see.

If and when they want you to see it.

Also, Air Force One is usually accompanied by a protective escort of fighter jets – often provided by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) – and those aren’t visible.

A closer look at Air Force One

Air Force One is the equivalent of the White House in the sky.

There’s a situation room with phones for unclassified calls as well as phones for secure information, there’s always a doctor on board, reserves of the US president’s blood type, and so on.

Interestingly, unlike the presidential limo, The Beast, these aircraft aren’t destroyed once decommissioned.

This is because even though it’s fitted with sensitive systems, they can easily be stripped and then either upgraded or destroyed individually, without having to crush the whole plane.