Washington  - George W Bush, 62, said goodbye to his staff and left Washington on Tuesday after turning over the reins of power to President Barack Obama.

Shortly after attending Obama's inauguration, a Marine helicopter took the former president to Andrews Air Force Base outside Washington. Obama and First Lady Michelle waved goodbye as he boarded.

Bush addressed his staff during a closed door session at the base before boarding a presidential aircraft to fly with former first lady Laura to Midland, Texas, appearing emotional as he left the event and climbed the steps to the plane's cabin, a White House source said.

The Bushes have purchased a home in Dallas and intend to spend most of their time there focusing on post-White House life. They will continue to use their ranch in Crawford for weekend getaways and vacation.

Obama, First Lady Michelle, Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, escorted the Bush couple to the helicopter on the East Front of the Congress and waved goodbye. (dpa)