Air Force One Retires to Reagan Library

The Boeing 707 that served as an Air Force One aircraft for 28 years is on its way to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. The airplane was disassembled at San Bernardino International Airport (California) and transported to Simi Valley, where it will be reassembled, restored and put on public display beginning in late 2004. Reagan flew on the airplane extensively during his eight years as chief executive. The four-engined Boeing also transported Presidents Nixon, Ford, Carter and Clinton, and both Presidents Bush. The airplane made its last flight as Air Force One in August of 2001 when it transported President Bush to San Antonio for a public appearance. It was the 707's 444th mission as Air Force One. The Boeing Company dismantled the airplane and will be in charge of restoring it for the Reagan Library.