Trump Considers Buying Used Boeing 747-8 Planes for Air Force One Amid Production Delays

President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday Feb. 19 that he is exploring the purchase of used Boeing aircraft as a potential alternative for Air Force One, expressing frustration over delays by the U.S. plane-maker in delivering two specially modified aircraft for presidential use.

Speaking to reporters aboard one of the two aging Boeing 747-200 aircraft currently in service, which are nearly 35 years old, Trump stated, “We’re looking at alternatives because Boeing is taking too long. We may go and buy a plane to convert it.” He specified that he would not consider Airbus, the European competitor, due to its status as the only other global supplier of large wide-body aircraft, but would contemplate acquiring a second-hand Boeing plane. “I would not consider Airbus. I could buy one from another country perhaps or get one from another country,” he added.

Boeing holds the contract to produce updated versions based on the newer Boeing 747-8 model. However, the project has encountered significant delays and financial losses, exacerbated by extensive modifications required to meet the unique security and operational needs of presidential travel. These modifications include state-of-the-art communications equipment, enhancements for survivability, and self-contained air-stairs for use in various terrains.

Originally scheduled for delivery in 2024, the timeline for the first updated Air Force One has now been pushed back to 2027, with the second expected in 2028, during what would be Trump’s final year in office if reelected, according to the U.S. Air Force.

Over the weekend, Trump toured a newer Boeing 747-8 BBJ, previously owned by the Qatari royal family, at Palm Beach International Airport to assess its hardware and technology and underscore the delays in updating the presidential fleet. The New York Times first reported Trump’s consideration of purchasing and modifying used aircraft for presidential use.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, AP, New York Times