President Donald Trump is reportedly considering building a helipad on the South Lawn of the White House to prevent Marine One helicopters from damaging the grass during takeoffs and landings.
Why a Helipad is Needed
Despite the availability of new VH-92A Patriot helicopters, they have yet to regularly fly the president to and from the White House because their exhaust can burn the lawn. Until now, Marine One has mostly operated when the president is away from the executive mansion.
The helipad would allow the new aircraft to operate safely on the South Lawn without harming the historic grounds. Marine Corps officials have considered such a project for years, but concerns over the White House’s historic nature and political implications have previously delayed the plan.
Background on the VH-92A Helicopters
The Sikorsky VH-92A, owned by Lockheed Martin, was contracted in 2019 to replace the older VH-3D (in service since 1978) and VH-60 (in service since 1987). The new helicopters are larger and designed to improve performance, payload, communications systems, and crew coordination.
Although the helicopters were expected to enter service in 2020, the exhaust issues that could damage the lawn delayed full White House operations. Previously, Marine One helicopters landed on small boards to protect the grass.
White House Renovation Context
The proposed helipad would be another major White House renovation under Trump. Earlier projects included paving over parts of the Rose Garden and reconstructing the East Wing with a new ballroom, among other modifications.
A retired military officer told The Washington Post that the helipad is not “a wild Trump idea,” but previous administrations avoided it to preserve the historic nature of the property and limit political controversy.
Current Usage
The VH-92A has been used only occasionally, including when former President Joe Biden traveled to Chicago in 2024. Since Trump returned to office in 2025, he has used the helicopters when his travel does not involve leaving or returning to the White House.
The helipad could be built as early as summer 2026, providing a permanent solution for operating Marine One without damaging the South Lawn.
