In a recent incident, Donald Trump’s private Boeing 757, commonly known as “Trump Force One,” was forced to make an emergency landing due to a mechanical issue. The aircraft, which had been en route to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) for a campaign rally in Bozeman, Montana, was diverted to Billings-Logan International Airport (BIL) after reportedly suffering a hydraulic leak. The emergency landing left Trump around 150 miles away from his intended destination.

While the former President’s camp has not released an official statement regarding the cause of the diversion, sources indicate that a hydraulic leak was to blame. The U.S. Secret Service, tasked with ensuring Trump’s safety, confirmed that the diversion was due to a mechanical problem, not a security threat. Despite the seriousness of hydraulic leaks, the plane landed safely in Billings with no injuries reported.

Upon landing, Trump shared a video from the aircraft, commenting on the beauty of his surroundings in Billings but notably avoiding any mention of the emergency landing or the aircraft’s mechanical difficulties. After the airport was thoroughly checked by the Secret Service, Trump boarded a different plane to complete his journey to Bozeman, arriving approximately 90 minutes later than scheduled. His rally at Montana State University, originally set for 20:00 local time, was delayed but still proceeded.

The incident also draws attention to the age of Trump’s Boeing 757-200, which is now 33 years old. Despite its age, the aircraft underwent a significant refurbishment in 2022, including a new Rolls-Royce RB211 Turbofan engine, a fresh coat of paint, and a luxurious interior complete with gold-plated seatbelts and a private bedroom. However, the aircraft’s age and its history of mechanical issues, including a ground collision in May 2023 where its winglet clipped an unoccupied corporate jet, continue to raise questions about its airworthiness.

Trump originally purchased the 757 in 2011, replacing his older Boeing 727. During his presidency, Trump frequently flew aboard Air Force One, a Boeing VC-25A. Should he be re-elected, Trump has expressed his desire to update the presidential jet’s livery, a decision that has already sparked some controversy.

In a related note, Trump’s running mate, JD Vance, made headlines this week by landing at the same Wisconsin airport as Vice President Kamala Harris. Vance, while campaigning, was seen walking across the tarmac in front of Air Force Two, briefly addressing reporters.

As Trump continues his campaign, the reliability of “Trump Force One” will undoubtedly remain a topic of interest, particularly given the plane’s history and the recent mechanical scare.

• Featured image By Tomás Del Coro