Except they have to take the staff and security with them to continue to do their job as president. I wouldn't be opposed to them having to pay the price of a first class ticket at the tome the trip is announced for themselves and all individuals who aren't on the public payroll or are participating in the event.
You are right, the President is constantly working and is in constant need of protection, advisement etc. Air Force One has the amenities to allow for this. It's not so simple hootsbox. That said, I do think its ridiculous that our presidents spend their time doing this sort of thing and you're right, they all do it. I would wager that G.W Bush did less of it in his second term than Obama because he was somewhat tainted by then and was probably not sought after as much.
I applaud you taking the initiative to write this though and I'm glad you shared it here. You ought to share the reply (if any) that you receive.
Yeah, and guess what! I got a call from Congressman Meadows office and he intends to sponsor a bill, if there is not a similar one already, limiting the time they spend "fundraising" and the money that is spent on them and their entourage. Good for Mark!!!
That's pretty cool that you received a response and a declaration to take action. You will have to keep us posted as to what follows. -This could be an interesting insight in to the process.