The U.S Air Force has announced that the delivery of the first of two new Air Force One jets from Boeing has been delayed once again now expected in mid 2028. The delay adds to a series of setbacks in the program and raises concerns for President Donald Trump who reportedly wants to fly in the new planes before the end of his term in January 2029.
The two specialized 747-8 aircraft currently under conversion are being equipped with advanced communications and defense systems to serve as the next generation of presidential transport. The program originally contracted in 2018 for $3.9 billion has seen costs rise and Boeing has already posted $2.4 billion in charges related to the project. The current Air Force One planes have been in service since 1990.
Boeing stated it is making progress and remains focused on delivering “two exceptional Air Force One airplanes for the country.” The delays prompted criticism from Trump earlier this year though he ruled out switching to a European manufacturer like Airbus. Elon Musk serving as an adviser to Trump has reportedly been assisting Boeing in navigating the project’s challenges.
In addition to the two new jets the U.S. received a luxury Boeing 747 as a gift from Qatar in May. The White House has asked the Air Force and defense contractor L3Harris Technologies to rapidly upgrade the aircraft for use as Air Force One.
Earlier this year Boeing appointed Steve Sullivan a former Northrop Grumman executive who worked on programs including the B-21 bomber to lead the Air Force One program. He replaces Gregg Coffey who moved to another role at the company. With the 2028 delivery now set the program will be four years behind schedule highlighting the complexities and high stakes of delivering the next generation of the U.S. presidential fleet.
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