That sure seems strange. I know that’s what it says over on Wikipedia, but I could have sworn they weren’t used until Clinton took over. I guess my recollection is faulty.
The press was hostile about the extravagance president Bush 41 and his use of the 747 Air Force One's even though they don't cost any more to operate than the old 707's. President Bush 41 used the built in air stairs in the cargo compartment to avoid having the whole 747 in the background of photos. Of course one BJ Clinton became president, the press loved the new Air Force One's.