politics
Construction begins on new South Lawn helipad for presidential helicopter
Work started Monday on a helipad project on the South Lawn. The project follows earlier White House construction that included demolition of the East Wing for a ballroom and installation of a Presidential Walk of Fame display.
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Crews began construction Monday on a new helipad for Marine One on the South Lawn, according to The Washington Post. Fencing was placed around the work area and crews continued into the night. The project is the latest addition to the White House grounds during the current term.
It follows demolition of the East Wing to accommodate a $600 million ballroom and the addition of the Presidential Walk of Fame display.
Project funding and purpose Lockheed Martin, owner of Sikorsky Aircraft which built the VH-92A Patriot helicopters, has reportedly donated $5 million toward the helipad. The total cost of the project has not been disclosed. The helipad is intended to address operational issues with the new helicopter fleet.
Exhaust vents on the VH-92A direct heat downward during landing and takeoff, which can damage the lawn.
Background and prior considerations Previous administrations examined similar plans but declined to proceed, citing concerns that a helipad would alter the appearance of presidential arrivals and departures on the lawn. Officials have stated the current project is driven by security and operational needs rather than other factors.
The Marine Corps maintains a fleet of 23 presidential helicopters. The final two VH-92A aircraft were delivered in August 2024 at a total program cost of $4.95 billion, according to a Government Accountability Office report.
