President Donald Trump criticizes Boeing for significant delays in the delivery of two new Air Force One jets. While aboard a current Air Force One aircraft on February 19, 2025, Trump told reporters that he was “not happy with Boeing” and suggested the White House might seek alternative solutions, stating, “We may buy a plane or get a plane, or something.”
A day before Trump’s remarks, on February 18, 2025, a Trump official disclosed to Reuters that the delivery of the new Air Force One jets might be pushed back to 2029 or even later. These delays have intensified concerns over Boeing’s ability to meet its commitments on time, especially for such a high-profile project.
No Plans to Turn to Airbus
Despite his frustration, President Trump made it clear that he would not consider Airbus as an alternative, ruling out the European manufacturer. “I would not consider Airbus. I could buy one from another country perhaps or get one from another country,” Trump stated, reinforcing his preference for a domestically sourced solution.
The New Air Force One Program
The upcoming Air Force One fleet consists of two Boeing 747-8 aircraft, designated as VC-25B. Initially, the first aircraft was set for delivery in September 2026, with the second expected to arrive in 2027 or early 2028. However, Boeing’s struggles with supply chain disruptions, inflation, and workforce shortages have caused significant delays. In July 2024, Ted Colbert, Head of Boeing Defense, Space and Security, acknowledged these challenges, emphasizing their impact on the project.
Air Force One is extensively customized to meet the specific needs of the U.S. president. These modifications include state-of-the-art navigation systems, secure communication facilities, and defensive measures. The aircraft is equipped with advanced countermeasures designed to protect against missile threats and electronic warfare, ensuring the president’s safety in any scenario.
Boeing Faces Financial Setbacks
The U.S. Air Force currently operates two Boeing VC-25 aircraft, which are modified Boeing 747-200B models that have been in service since 1990. The delays in delivering the new jets have reportedly cost Boeing over $2 billion, further compounding the company’s financial and operational difficulties.
With growing frustration from the White House and escalating costs, Boeing faces increasing pressure to resolve these delays and deliver the new Air Force One fleet as soon as possible.
Youssef Yahya is the CEO and Founder of Aviation for Aviators, a platform dedicated to the aviation industry. With over 3 years of experience as an aviation writer, Youssef is passionate about sharing his insights on aviation, entrepreneurship, and the broader business landscape. As a Teaching Assistant in Entrepreneurship at Nile University, he also nurtures the next generation of entrepreneurs. When he’s not exploring the skies or business ventures, you can find him saying, ‘Drag your coffee, and let’s talk aviation, entrepreneurship, and football.’
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