The jet was gifted to the U.S. by Qatar as the new contracted presidential planes have been delayed.
President Donald Trump is scheduled to travel on the new “bridge” Air Force One on Wednesday. The Boeing 747-B jet was unconditionally gifted to the U.S. Defense Department by the Qatari royal family for the president’s use in May 2025. The current Air Force One planes have been in service since 1990. Boeing was contracted in 2018 to build two new VC-25B jets during President Trump’s first term; however, production has been significantly delayed.
President Trump toured the refurbished plane at Joint Base Andrews on June 19. The Air Force said the luxury jumbo jet underwent $400 million in modifications, including security, mission communications, logistics support, and advanced technology. The service branch stated that any risks posed by its previous owners have been neutralized. President Trump also changed the color scheme from white and two lighter blues to red, white, blue, and gold.
White House communications director Steven Cheung recently announced the retirement of one of the older models, posting, “‘Well done, good and faithful servant'” alongside a photo of the decommissioned aircraft.
The renovated interim aircraft is 4 inches longer than the previous Air Force One, is able to carry more weight, has the capability to fly slightly farther and faster, and is 22 years newer than its predecessor. It will only be used until 2028, when the new Boeing jets are anticipated to be delivered.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For President Trump’s safety as he begins to use the refurbished Air Force One.
- For Secretary Troy Meink as he heads the U.S. Air Force.
- For God to guide the president and members of his administration in their decisions and actions.
Sources: BBC, USA Today
