U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing over delays in building two new Air Force One planes, stating that he is exploring alternatives. The contract for the updated presidential aircraft, based on the Boeing 747-8, was negotiated during Trump’s first term but has faced significant setbacks, with delivery now pushed to 2027 or 2028.
Speaking aboard one of the current 35-year-old presidential planes, Trump voiced his frustration with Boeing’s progress. “No, I’m not happy with Boeing. It takes them a long time to do, you know, Air Force One, we gave that contract out a long time ago,” he said.
Trump hinted at potential alternatives, including purchasing a used plane and converting it for presidential use. When asked if he would consider Airbus, Boeing’s European rival, Trump replied, “No, I would not consider Airbus over Boeing, but I could buy one that was used and convert it.”
The contract for two new Air Force One planes, based on the Boeing 747-8, was renegotiated during Trump’s first term after he deemed the initial deal too expensive. The project involves installing highly classified and complex communications, safety, and accessibility features, making it one of the most expensive and challenging aircraft projects in the world.
Boeing has already incurred billions of dollars in costs due to delays and renegotiations. The planes were originally set for delivery in 2024, but the timeline has been pushed back to 2027 or 2028.
Boeing’s Aviation Struggles For the Past Year
Boeing’s delays on the Air Force One project is coming as the company battles more challenges for the company. In 2024, Boeing reported a surmounting loss of $11.8 billion– its worst financial result since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic grounded the aviation industry.
The company also faced significant issues in its commercial aircraft unit and several defense programs, further compounding its struggles. In the final quarter of 2024, Boeing lost $3.8 billion, partly due to strikes affecting its operations.
Days before making his disapproval known, US President, Donald Trump visited a 13-year-old Boeing 747-800 previously owned by the Qatari royal family, which was parked at Palm Beach International Airport. The visit fueled speculation that Trump might consider purchasing a used aircraft and converting it for presidential use.
