Obama arrives in Washington

US President-elect Barack Obama landed in the Washington area today, setting up the final march toward his January 20 inauguration.

He arrived at Andrews Air Force Base, his new home airport; presidential plane Air Force One is housed at the Maryland installation.

Mr Obama flew aboard a government 757 plane typically used by vice presidents and first ladies. It was his first trip on a government aircraft since winning the election on November 4, aides said.

The president-elect quickly moved to the motorcade taking him to his temporary home at the Hay-Adams Hotel across from the White House.

His wife and two young daughters made the same trip from Chicago on Saturday.

Mr Obama has a busy week ahead of him.

After his girls leave for their first day of classes at the private Sidwell Friends School, he has a meeting planned with Democratic and Republican leaders about a proposed economic plan.

On Wednesday, he is scheduled to attend lunch at the White House with former presidents.

He also has some high-profile members of his administration to name, including a director of national intelligence and a CIA director.

The Obamas plan to take up residence at the Hay-Adams until the White House’s guest quarters at Blair House, across Pennsylvania Avenue, are available on January 15.

The Obamas moved early so their daughters – seven-year-old Sasha and 10-year-old Malia – could start on time at the private Sidwell Friends School, an aide said. Other political children to attend the school include Al Gore III and Chelsea Clinton.

Mr Obama will be inaugurated as President of the United States on January 20.