Falcon (Support Aircraft)

The Falcon flies formation with Air Force One, its crew—called the boys next door by Colonel Weiskopf—poised to execute a low flyby inspection. Positioned for a close underbelly view of the landing gear, they provide the visual confirmation darkness denies ground crews and onboard teams. Bartlet questions the maneuver's risks while Weiskopf affirms their readiness, Larry tasked to brief C.J. on the implications.

2 appearances

Purpose

Visual inspection of Air Force One's landing gear during low-altitude flyby past Andrews tower

Significance

Delivers essential safety data amid gear uncertainty, averting blind landing risks and fueling Bartlet's damage-control pivot to press briefings

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S4E19 · Angel Maintenance

Moonless Flyby — Low Pass and Midair Refuel

The Falcon support aircraft is referenced as the platform that will fly alongside and 'poke around' under Air Force One to visually inspect the gear during a low-altitude pass, providing the only plausible close-up assessment in moonless conditions.

Before: In formation nearby or on standby ('boys next door'), ready to perform inspection duties.

After: Tasked to conduct the low flyby inspection; operationally engaged in active support of Air Force One's contingency plan.

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S4E19 · Angel Maintenance

Order to Tell C.J. About the Refuel

The Falcon support aircraft is invoked as the operational inspection asset; its crew will fly alongside to peer into the undercarriage and 'poke around' where ground crews cannot see, acting as the immediate technical response to the ambiguous landing-gear indicators.

Before: Flying in formation or on station nearby and ready to perform a close visual inspection under Air Force One.

After: Preparing to conduct or already conducting the underbelly inspection; poised to confirm gear status and influence whether the flyby/refuel plan proceeds.

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