U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday unveiled the United States’ new interim Air Force One aircraft during a ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, marking a significant milestone in the long-delayed modernisation of the presidential airlift fleet.
The aircraft, a heavily modified Boeing 747-8 previously operated by the Qatari government, has been converted to presidential transport standards and will serve as a temporary “bridge” aircraft until the two long-awaited next-generation VC-25B presidential aircraft are delivered later this decade.
Sporting a striking new red, white, dark blue and gold livery, the aircraft departs from the iconic light-blue colour scheme introduced during the Kennedy administration. The new design reflects a paint scheme long favoured by President Trump and is expected to be applied to other high-level government aircraft in the future.
The aircraft has undergone extensive modifications by L3Harris Technologies, including the installation of secure communications systems, self-defence equipment and other classified mission systems required for presidential operations. U.S. Air Force officials announced in May that the aircraft had successfully completed its modification and flight-test programme ahead of its summer rollout.
The interim aircraft has been acquired amid continuing delays to Boeing’s VC-25B programme, which is now expected to deliver the first purpose-built replacement for the current VC-25A fleet in 2027, with the second aircraft following in 2028.
The unveiling has also generated political controversy because the aircraft was originally donated by Qatar before undergoing its extensive military conversion. Critics have questioned both the acceptance of the aircraft and the cost of the modifications, while supporters argue that the jet provides a practical solution while the official replacement programme remains behind schedule.
The newly unveiled aircraft is expected to enter service in the coming months and is scheduled to participate in major national events, including celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States in July.
This post was published on 20 June 2026 16:24
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