White House confirms new helipad for supersized Marine One helicopter
Changes come after report says Trump unhappy with helipad’s appearance and lawn’s slope
TL;DR
- The White House is redoing a new helipad on the South Lawn to accommodate a larger Marine One helicopter.
- Reports suggest President Trump was dissatisfied with the helipad's appearance and the lawn's slope.
- Construction includes adjustments to the landing pad and potentially the lawn's gradient.
- A presidential seal was initially placed and then removed for modification.
- The project is funded by helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky Aircraft and is expected to cost $5m-$6m.
- The new VH-92A Marine One is larger, more powerful, and has downward-facing exhaust vents that could damage the lawn.
- The White House spokesman stated the improvements are necessary for safe presidential landings and to protect the South Lawn.