Someone correct me if I am wrong but I thought that a "sweep of the runway" was for the security and safety of AF1 AND, more importantly, the POTUS and yet when advised that a sweep of the runway would delay landing the pilot replied "we need to land on time" and instructed ATC to cancel the sweep of the runway
I heard a similar exchange last year when AF1 was departing Ottawa for Washington and was told to hold short for a sweep of the runway. Again the pilot advised that a sweep was "not necessary....advise when runway is clear"
As most of you are aware, it is a MAJOR point of pride with AF1 crew that they arrive at their destination at the PRECISE SECOND scheduled, i.e. if they are scheduled to arrive at an airport at 10:00 am the aircraft comes to a complete stop on the tarmac as the clock strikes 10:00 am but I wonder if this causes them to take extra chances? Is it really worth forgoing a security sweep of a runaway so that the POTUS will arrive at his destination at the precise minute scheduled?
A few weeks ago the world saw how this "get there on-time at all costs" mentality can wipe out the entire leadership of a country.
I just hope that they are not taking unnecessary chances with the safety of the POTUS. Maybe I'm just worried about nothing. How do other people feel?