Note: This aircraft is located in the Presidential Gallery on a controlled-access portion of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The gallery will close until further notice beginning May 1, 2013, as part of budget reduction requirements due to sequestration.
The VC-6A is a 10-place turboprop executive transport that was operated by the 89th Military Airlift Wing at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., to transport visiting dignitaries and high-level government personnel. It is a standard Beechcraft King Air B90 with a VIP interior and is the only one of its type purchased by the Air Force. The aircraft's features include full pressurization for travel comfort at high altitudes, and all-weather navigation and de-icing equipment for all-around utility.
This aircraft was placed in service in early 1966. During the early part of its operational career, it was used to transport President Lyndon B. Johnson and members of his family between Bergstrom Air Force Base, Texas (near Austin), and the Johnson family ranch (near Johnson City). During that time, the aircraft became informally known as the "Lady Bird Special." After leaving presidential service, the VC-6A continued in its special executive transport role with the 89th Military Airlift Wing until it was retired to the Museum.
The aircraft was flown to the museum on Sept. 6, 1985.
SPECIFICATIONS: Span: 50 ft. 3 in. Length: 36 ft. 6 in. Height: 14 ft. 8 in. Weight: 9,705 lbs. maximum Armament: None Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-20 turboprop of 550 hp each Crew: Two Cost: $436,000 Serial number: 66-7943 C/N: LJ 320
PERFORMANCE:
Maximum speed: 256 mph Range: 1,400 miles Service ceiling: 32,900 ft.
