Sweet 'Caroline' Is Still Music to Aviation Fans' Ears

Private aircraft of John. F. Kennedy transformed presidential campaigns.

Friday, January 17, 2025 at 08:56 AM ET

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Artist's rendering of President John F. Kennedy's private airplane, named Caroline after his daughter. [Image: Ron Finger]

Key Takeaways:

John F. Kennedy utilized a private Convair CV-240 aircraft, Caroline, as a flying campaign office and executive transport during his tight 1960 presidential race.
Caroline provided JFK with a significant and unprecedented logistical advantage, enabling him to cover more ground than traditional whistle-stop campaigns and contributing to his narrow victory.
After its political and family service, the historic Caroline was donated to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where it is currently stored awaiting full restoration.

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In 1960, the presidential race between Massachusetts Democratic U.S. Senator John F. Kennedy and Republican Vice President Richard Nixon was a tight one. And like all campaigns, both sides were looking for an edge.

For Kennedy the advantage had wings—specifically a Convair CV-240 christened Caroline and named for Kennedy’s young daughter. Caroline was converted from a 40-seat airliner to an executive transport for one purpose—to help the senator win the election.