VH-92A Patriot: Biden flies in new US presidential helicopter for 1st time

The flight saw U.S. President Biden transported from O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois, to Chicago’s Soldier Field ahead of an appearance at the Democrat National Convention in the city.

“This delivery represents a significant milestone and new chapter in the rich, 67-year history of Marines providing helicopter transport of the president of the United States. The VH-92A Patriot brings increased capabilities for this no-fail mission supporting the Commander-in-Chief [worldwide],” said Lieutenant General Bradford Gering, Deputy Commandant for Aviation.

VH-92A cleared for “Marine One” duties

“Sikorsky’s contribution to Marine Aviation has enabled your United States Marine Corps to be a ready and lethal fighting force,” he added. The delivery demonstrates the success of the VH-92A helicopter program in designing, building, and delivering the program of record under budget and within the planned schedule.

The VH-92A helicopter will now be responsible for transporting the President, Vice President, and other officials. Sikorsky has unparalleled experience and a proven track record in this mission, having transported every president since 1957.

The fleet of VH-92A, will now be known as “White Tops” because of their distinctive white and green livery.

The U.S. Navy has 23 VH-92As, of which 21 are operational, and two are kept in reserve “at rest.”

“This quantity allows for aircraft to be ready to support the executive lift mission, undergo various levels of maintenance, lifecycle upgrades, and provide assets for pilot/aircrew training,” explains the U.S. Navy.

Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1) operates the VH-92 fleet. However, this unit has not been able to use the type as a primary helicopter lift platform to shuttle the President, their family, and their closest advisors at home and abroad.

Many years of service to come

“Once again, Sikorsky’s highly-skilled employees have shown their ability to innovate, manufacture, and deliver these next-generation VH-92A presidential helicopters that will be operating worldwide in support of presidential missions well into the future,” said Richard Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager.

“This milestone is a credit to our valued and long-lasting partnership with the Marine Corps as we provide a highly-tailored solution for the Marine Corps’ unique, critical mission,” he added.

The VH-92A program guarantees long-term affordability by utilizing the FAA-certified Sikorsky S-92 aircraft, which is considered best-in-class for safety and reliability. The S-92 aircraft was modified at Sikorsky facilities in Owego, New York, and Stratford, Connecticut to meet the specific requirements defined by the government for the VH-92A mission.

Now that the VH-92 has been officially approved for the presidential airlift role, the helicopter will also be seen more frequently around the world.