US President Donald Trump announced plans for a permanent helipad on the White House South Lawn to accommodate more powerful presidential helicopters and protect the historic grounds. Trump highlighted the need for the helipad due to the increased downwash from the new helicopters compared to the older fleet. The existing practice of landing Marine One on the grass was deemed impractical with the new helicopters being significantly more powerful.
The President proposed the construction of a permanent helipad after observing the damage caused by the new helicopters to the White House lawn. He mentioned that the helicopters were so powerful that they lifted the grass instead of merely scorching it. The new helipad, to be financed by helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky, will feature a White House seal carved into granite and can also serve as an official event venue.
Trump estimated the cost of the helipad construction to be between five to six million dollars, with Sikorsky agreeing to cover the entire expense. The initiative would allow for the retirement of the aging presidential helicopters, some of which are over four decades old. The new helicopters aim to replace the current fleet that has been in service for multiple administrations over many years.
