Original Timeline for New Air Force One Pushed Back by Three Years
Boeing has suggested delivering the new version of Air Force One by 2027, according to a US Air Force official. This marks a three-year delay from the original delivery timeline of 2024, which had been agreed upon during Donald Trump’s presidency.
Trump had negotiated the purchase of two modified Boeing 747-8 aircraft during his first term, spanning 2017 to 2021. The deal was made to upgrade the ageing presidential fleet.
Speaking to the House Armed Services Committee, Darlene Costello, acting assistant secretary of the Air Force, noted the company is aiming for a 2027 delivery. However, she cautioned that this date is not confirmed, as several factors still need to be finalised.
Adjustments Made to Speed Up Production
To help Boeing stay on schedule, the government has temporarily relaxed some security requirements at the production facility. Costello said this move has made the assembly process more efficient and productive.
Even so, she acknowledged that a few key issues remain unresolved. Once these are addressed, the Air Force expects to have a clearer idea of the aircraft’s final delivery timeline.
Costello also shared that discussions with the White House are ongoing. These talks are focused on ensuring the final aircraft meets acceptable capability standards for presidential use.
Interim Jet in Place Amid Ongoing Delays
As delays continue, the government has selected L3Harris Technologies to convert a previously owned Boeing 747 for temporary use. The aircraft was formerly operated by the Qatari government and is now being overhauled to serve as an interim Air Force One.
This temporary jet could be ready as early as autumn, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
While Boeing has not commented directly, the company has referred all questions to the Air Force. In February, Trump expressed frustration with Boeing but dismissed switching to Airbus as an option. Around that same time, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg noted that Elon Musk has been actively assisting in resolving the aircraft delivery challenges.
with inputs from Reuters