Here is the controversial Air Force One photo and video. The April 27, 2009 Air Force One photo-op in the skies above New York City caused massive panic, and numerous 911 calls as the low flying jets brought back the terror of the 9/11 September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the city. The intention was to shoot new publicity pictures of Air Force One using the New York Skyline and the Statue of Liberty as a backdrop, but it resulted in the massive panic in the city, as first reported on that day. (See White House Apologizes for Air Force Flyover for Air Force One photos and video taken that day.)
The photo shoot has also resulted in the resignation of Louis Caldera as director of the White House Military Office who was responsible for the mishap. Previously, he had made a public apology. Defense Secretary Robert Gates also issued a public apology.
The White House also has released the report that President Obama had requested on the incident. The full report can be seen here: ‘Air Force One’ photo-flop costly: One job
The Gates apology letter was addressed to Senate John McCain, the ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee and posted on his Senate Web site (You can see the letter, a pdf file, here). According to Gates, the total cost of the photo op was approximately $357,012.
Gates’ letter said the reaction to the low-flying planes was understandable and “we deeply regret the anxiety and alarm that resulted from this mission.”
But Gates also insisted that the appropriate agencies and air traffic controllers were told of the event. New York City officials have said they were asked not to inform the public beforehand.
“I am concerned that this highly public and visible mission did not include an appropriate public affairs plan nor adequate review and approval by senior Air Force and DOD [Department of Defense] officials,” Gates added. He promised further review by defense officials.
Source: White House aide out after $357,012 photo-op with Air Force One
Photo credit: White House
A video report is after the jump.
Air Force One Photo: Air Force One Photo-Op Controversy
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