The Secret Service decided not to settle for a route change or increased security, but instead to create the appearance that Trump was departing on the regular presidential aircraft while actually removing him from Turkey by different means.
The operation began in full view of cameras in a completely routine manner. Trump arrived at the Ankara airport, walked the red carpet, and climbed the stairs to Air Force One, waving to journalists and photographers on site.
But shortly after he disappeared inside the aircraft, the covert portion of the operation began. Trump and several staff members were transferred to an opening on the opposite side of the plane, away from media view. A catering truck positioned against the aircraft served to conceal them, and the president was moved from the plane without those in the area noticing what was happening.
From there, the entourage was transferred to a C-32A military aircraft, a modified version of the Boeing 757, which was waiting nearby. The plane took off under a regular military call sign and flew Trump to Britain.
Meanwhile, Air Force One also took off — only this time the president wasn't on board at all.
According to the publication, the level of secrecy was so high that even journalists and some White House staff flying on Air Force One believed Trump was with them. During the flight, they were asked to keep window shades closed.
At the same time, tracking data for the aircraft showed that its electronic identification system was only activated when it reached the Black Sea area.
The goal, according to the report, was to maintain as much as possible the impression that the president was aboard the familiar and conspicuous aircraft, while he had already made his way to his destination on the alternate plane.
