President Donald Trump showcased the newly designated Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Previously owned by Qatar, the aircraft now features a significant makeover. The exterior forsakes the traditional robin’s egg blue for a striking navy blue with a red stripe. The plane also displays the presidential seal and a large American flag.
Speaking in the hangar, Trump described the plane as a “flying White House” unmatched in luxury. The aircraft will serve as the presidential plane until new models from Boeing arrive, expected in 2028.
Trump announced he will use the jet for the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey. This will be his first international trip in the new Air Force One, after returning from the G7 summit in France on the old model.
He noted that the design reflects his personal taste. A flyover is scheduled for the July 4 celebrations.
Despite ethical concerns about the gift from Qatar, Trump has stated the plane will become a part of a presidential library post-presidency. The new aircraft is necessary as there is a delay in the Boeing production.
The Air Force has confirmed that the plane adheres to stringent security standards. The Qatari aircraft underwent significant modifications to meet these requirements without exceeding a cost of $400 million. Much of its interior, meant for heads of state, remains intact.
During Trump’s first presidency, he initiated plans for a new fleet with colors matching his personal jet. Although former President Biden halted these plans, upon Trump’s return to office, the design was reinstated. Other government aircraft will also use this color scheme.
Current Air Force One models, the VC-25As, will stay operational until the new Boeing VC-25Bs are ready. They, alongside the Qatari jet, will be available based on mission needs, as stated by an Air Force spokesperson. The older jets will not retire but have undetermined future uses.
Reporter Notes: The air base name was corrected to Joint Base Andrews from its former name, Andrews Air Force Base. Reporting by Kim; contribution by The Associated Press writer Konstantin Toropin from Washington.
Alibaba Challenges Pentagon’s Military Affiliation Designation 
Warner Introduces Bill to Restrict Acting DNI Appointments 
Keiko Fujimori Takes Lead as Peru’s Presidential Race Nears Conclusion 
New York City Mayor Endorses Progressive Candidates Leading to Major Wins 
Bill Gates Discusses Jeffrey Epstein in House Oversight Committee Testimony 
Federal Appeals Court Restores Trump Administration’s Expedited Deportation Policy