When I visited the Reagan Library in Simi Valley last year, I noticed that a new building was under construction. On this picture taken last year, you see part of the Reagan Library on the left, and the new building on the right.

And this is how things look now:

But first, some more pictures taken last year. Here is a close-up of the new building as it was still under construction:

A poster explained what was going on: the previous version of 'Air Force One', the presidential airplane, was going to be displayed permanently at the Reagan Library, and a building was being constructed for this purpose (see full poster with text).

So when I returned to California this year, I was curious to see the brand new Air Force One exhibit. I had already seen the news that president Bush was present at the opening on October 24. Some signs of the opening were still visible, like these posters...

... and these flaglets in front of the new building, planted by youths attending the opening.

Air Force One, a Boeing 707, as seen from the outside...

... and from inside the building. If you wonder how they got the plane inside the building, take a look at the pictures on the website of the Reagan Foundation. Essentially, they first moved the plane to the location, and then started constructing the walls around it.

Visitors can take a look inside the aircraft, but it is forbidden to take pictures. Be prepared to wait long lines before you can enter the plane.

Also on display: Marine One, the helicopter used for transporting the president between the White House and Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base.

The current model of Air Force One is a Boeing 747, as shown on this wall painting.