Xi maintains composure during US military flyover for historic tarmac welcome

Viral reaction at Joint Base Andrews frames Chinese president’s visit as leaders prepare for crucial talks on trade and security

As Xi arrived at the military base just outside Washington on Thursday, he was greeted with a ceremony that included the US Air Force band playing the American and Chinese national anthems, a 21-gun salute, a guard of honour, a display of six F-16 and six F-22 fighter jets, and a flyover by two B-1 Lancer bombers.

Footage showed that near the end of the US national anthem, reacting to the roaring sound of the B-1 flyover, Trump, who was saluting, ducked, gritted his teeth, turned his head to look at the aircraft, and lowered his salute in front of reporters and cameramen.

In contrast, Xi’s gaze followed the bomber to the right as it flew by, revealing minimal physical reaction.

Afterwards, Trump could be seen in the video saying to Xi, “That was really loud”.