Abdelrahman
Boeing’s Air Force One Deliveries Delayed Amid Cost Overruns
Boeing Inc. is contracted to deliver upgraded versions of the iconic Air Force One, yet the company is facing significant delays and substantial financial losses related to the project.
In Palm Beach, Florida, former President Donald Trump recently inspected a Boeing aircraft, showcasing its advanced hardware and technology. This visit served to underscore the ongoing delays in delivering the new Air Force One models, as confirmed by the White House on Saturday.
During his tour, Trump viewed the 13-year-old private jet stationed at Palm Beach International Airport. "President Trump is examining a new Boeing plane to evaluate the latest technology and features," stated Steven Cheung, the White House communications director. He noted that this visit emphasizes the project’s failure to meet its promised timelines for delivery.
Air Force One is a specially modified Boeing 747. Currently, there are two of these older aircraft in operation, both exceeding 30 years in age. Boeing has been contracted to produce their replacements, but the delivery timeline has slipped significantly. The company has experienced financial setbacks amounting to billions on this project.
Originally, the first new Air Force One was anticipated in 2024; however, it has been postponed to 2027, while the second aircraft is now expected in 2028, coinciding with Trump’s final year in office, according to information from the U.S. Air Force.
Trump has publicly criticized the escalating costs and delays associated with the project. He shared during a 2024 online discussion with billionaire Elon Musk that he managed to reduce costs significantly—by more than $1 billion—through tough negotiations with Boeing during his presidency.
"I was able to negotiate a $1.6 billion reduction for the same plane, only with a nicer paint job," Trump remarked regarding his dealings.
Musk, who has been a financial backer of Trump’s 2024 campaign, is currently leading an initiative within the Department of Government Efficiency aimed at trimming governmental expenses, consolidating agencies, and reducing the federal workforce. Musk has faced scrutiny over his approach to these changes.
Last month, Boeing’s CEO Kelly Ortberg mentioned that Musk is collaborating with the company to expedite the delivery of the new Air Force One aircraft.
Additionally, Trump has expressed interest in altering the color scheme of Air Force One, contemplating a shift from the current light blue to a deeper hue. His previous proposal to modify the color was dismissed by then-President Joe Biden after a study indicated that such changes would necessitate further testing, leading to additional delays and costs.
