[MilCom] Additional Information President's Visit to Iraq

[Ken]

According to a CNN news segment last evening (6/17/06 (with the reporter who 
was in the press pool that flew in the aircraft), the actual presidentail 
aircraft VC25A  (modified B747) see: 
http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?fsID=131was used to fly directly 
into Bagdad International airport.  The reporter stated that the aircraft 
"spiraled" down but still on approach they could readily see traffic below 
the aircraft, which of course could readily see the aircraft also.   The 
reporter indicated that the aircraft had enhancements/defensive devices that 
could be aid in repealing an/a (missile?) attack.

Very few people in the White House staff knew of the flight until the Camp 
David morning staff meeting when the president came on the telephone to talk 
with the staff rather than being there.

Ken