Boeing C-40B Clipper Aircraft

Full Specifications

Boeing C-40B Clipper: Military Executive Transport

The Boeing C-40B Clipper is a U.S. Air Force executive transport aircraft designed to move senior military and government leaders while providing secure communications and command support. Based on the Boeing 737-700, the C-40B combines a commercial-derived airframe with military avionics, auxiliary fuel capacity, specialized cabin equipment, and advanced communications systems. The Air Force selected the C-40B to replace its aging C-137 fleet, and the first aircraft entered service in 2002.

Unlike conventional cargo aircraft, the C-40B is optimized for high-priority personnel transport. Its cabin includes distinguished-visitor accommodations, crew rest facilities, conference space, business-class seating, galleys, and systems that allow senior leaders to continue conducting official business while airborne. The aircraft can carry approximately 26 to 32 passengers, depending on configuration.

Manufacturer

Boeing manufactures the C-40B airframe, while CFM International supplies the CFM56-7B27 turbofan engines. The aircraft uses the Boeing 737-700 fuselage combined with wings and landing gear derived from the larger 737-800. Its avionics include integrated GPS, flight management systems, an electronic flight instrument system, heads-up display, enhanced weather radar, and traffic collision avoidance technology.

Speed and Range

The C-40B has a published cruise speed of approximately 530 mph, or about Mach 0.8, and a service ceiling of 41,000 feet. Depending on payload and configuration, the aircraft has an unrefueled range of approximately 4,500 to 5,000 nautical miles. Two CFM56-7B27 engines each provide about 27,000 pounds of static thrust.

Cost/Price

The U.S. Air Force lists a historical unit cost of approximately $70 million. This figure should not be treated as a current replacement or procurement price because aircraft acquisition costs vary with configuration, upgrades, communications equipment, support, and inflation.