The current Air Force One refers to two Boeing 747-200 aircraft (designated VC-25A) that have been serving as the U.S. presidential planes since 1990 and 1991. These planes are aging but still operational, equipped with advanced secure communications, security features, and facilities such as a medical operating room
. Efforts to replace these aging jets have been underway for several years. Boeing was contracted in 2018 to build two new Boeing 747-8 based VC-25B aircraft to serve as the next Air Force One. However, the project has encountered significant delays and cost overruns. Originally expected to be delivered by 2022 or 2024, the delivery has now been pushed back to around 2027 or later, with some estimates suggesting as late as 2029 or beyond
. The delays stem from multiple factors including:
- Complex modifications required to meet presidential security and communication needs.
- Supply chain disruptions exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Boeing refurbishing older 747s originally built for another customer, which proved more costly and time-consuming than building new planes.
- Stringent security protocols for personnel working on the aircraft.
- Corporate management issues and cost overruns causing Boeing to report losses exceeding $2.5 billion on the program
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump expressed frustration with the delays and even considered acquiring an alternative jet, including a Qatari aircraft, to serve as Air Force One, though such proposals raise constitutional and technical challenges
. In summary, the current Air Force One planes remain in service but are increasingly outdated. The planned replacements are delayed but expected to enter service in the latter half of this decade, continuing the Boeing 747 legacy as the presidential aircraft
