PowerPoint Show by Andrew

The 78-year-old pontiff landed in Washington on Tuesday at 4pm (Eastern Time) for his first visit to the US.

He flew from Cuba, where he urged the Communist-run island to maintain good relations with its strong neighbor.

President Obama, Michelle and their daughters Malia and Sasha met Francis when he landed at St Andrews base.

Reports claim Obama was late, forcing the pope to wait longer than expected in the plane before disembarking. 

Touching down on Tuesday, he comes bearing a message that the power Washington symbolizes should be made to serve humanity.

As the plane was being taxied, the pilot opened the front side windows to fly a Star Spangled Banner and the Vatican flag.

Crowds of people stood packed behind a fence in excitement as the pope's airplane was taxied at St Andrews base on Tuesday afternoon.

Servicemen practiced rolling out the red carpet numerous times before the pontiff eventually landed at 4pm.

The Obamas walked out on to the tarmac after the airplane landed in a rare gesture to greet the pope as soon as he steps into the US.

Members of the clergy brace for the wind as they stand along the red carpet on the tarmac at Andrews Air Force Base.

Pope Francis has landed in the United States for a five-day tour including Washington, New York and Philadelphia.

It is Pope Francis's first visit to America since becoming pope in 2013.

Francis, who hails from Argentina, is the fourth pope in history to visit the States.

He descended the steps of the plane as it began to rain in the United States capital but unfazed crowds screamed 'Welcome to the USA!'

President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama greet Pope Francis upon his arrival at Andrews Air Force Base.

The president gave something of a bow as he shook the pope's hand and leaned towards him to greet him.

Both the First Lady and the pope had their outfits billow in the wind as they made the historic meet and greet.

Michelle also spoke with the pope, who speaks limited English. He is expected to give most of his speeches in Spanish during the visit.

Elder daughter Malia looked thrilled to be out of school and standing at such a historic event.

Younger daughter Sasha also looked very pleased to be there.

Francis shakes hands with Vice President Joe Biden on the tarmac.

Biden (pictured, left) attended the welcoming ceremony with his wife Jill.

Supporters cheer for Pope Francis and hold up their phones to snatch a photograph after he arrived from Cuba.

It is rare for the president and the First Family to personally welcome any leader as they land.

The pope appeared interested as Obama spoke to him on the tarmac. The pair will discuss Cuba and environmental concerns this week.

The pontiff appeared animated as the president personally introduced him to his daughters and then to waiting archbishops.

A line of cardinals and archbishops were also stood waiting for the pope. Michelle's mother Marian (left of Michelle) was also there.

Members of the clergy looked ecstatic to be stood with the pope as they appeared to laugh at something the president said.

A group of smartly-dressed children were on-hand to welcome the pope with a bouquet of flowers.

The four students from first, third, fifth and seventh grade attend Catholic schools in the Washington, D.C., area.

As the children walk off, the pope smiles, clutching his zucchetto (hat) which almost blew off in the wind.

Obama will meet with the pope in Washington on Wednesday before a reception for 15,000 people.

Coinciding with the United Nations summit, the pope's visit is part of the biggest security operation in American history.

There was widespread excitement among the crowds and TV viewers at the site of the pope's humble black Fiat 500 on the tarmac.

The pope peered out of the window of the car, which has the Vatican flag pinned to the hood, as he was driven away.

Despite swarming security detail, Francis eagerly peered past them to wave at the teeming crowds.