top of page
PRESIDENT EISENHOWER'S 1955
AIR FORCE ONE
President Eisenhower with his AIR FORCE ONE pilot, Col. William Draper
L-26B in flight in 1955
"Ike's Bird" in formation with the "Bucket of Bolts"
President Eisenhower with his AIR FORCE ONE pilot, Col. William Draper
1/12
Restored, flying, and coming to an airport near you...
History of "Ike's Bird"
"Ike's Bird" Video produced by the Aircraft Owners & Pilot's Association (AOPA).
This 1955 Aero Commander L-26B is nicknamed "Ike's Bird". It is the smallest plane ever to be used as Air Force One.
From 1955 to 1960 it was used by the Eisenhower Administration and the White House to carry the President, Vice President, First Family and other VIP's on short distance trips.
It's now fully restored and flying with the Commemorative Air Force.
Gallery
Click on the pictures to expand them.
Victory Flights for Veterans