On February 20, 2025, US President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing regarding the delayed contract for two new Air Force One planes. Speaking aboard one of the aging presidential aircraft, Trump indicated he is exploring alternatives due to Boeing’s slow progress on the project.
- Trump unhappy with Boeing's delayed contract
- Alternatives to new Air Force One considered
- Delivery pushed back to 2027 or 2028
- Boeing's contract renegotiated during Trump's term
- Kitting out planes involves high costs
- Boeing reported significant financial losses in 2024
The contract for the updated Air Force One jets was negotiated during Trump’s first term and is based on the modern Boeing 747-8 model. The initial timeline projected delivery by 2024; however, recent updates from Boeing indicate that this has been postponed to between 2027 and 2028. This delay has led Trump to express frustration publicly.
During his remarks, Trump stated, “No, I’m not happy with Boeing,” emphasizing that the lengthy timeline is unacceptable. As a result of these delays and previous negotiations that forced Boeing to lower costs—an effort that cost them billions—the president noted he might consider acquiring a used plane instead.
- The current presidential aircraft are over 35 years old.
- Boeing reported significant financial losses last year, totaling $11.8 billion.
- Kitting out new planes with necessary security features is costly and complex.
Trump also dismissed the idea of purchasing from Airbus, stating he would prefer to stick with Boeing but may look into used options. His recent visit to a former Qatari royal family-owned Boeing 747-800 at Palm Beach International Airport highlights his ongoing interest in alternative aircraft solutions as he navigates this contractual issue with Boeing.
This situation underscores ongoing challenges within aerospace manufacturing as companies like Boeing face scrutiny over project timelines while balancing national security requirements associated with presidential transport needs.
