Qatari-donated Air Force One is expected to begin flying Trump this summer
Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. The Qatari-donated plane being overhauled to become a new Air Force One jet is on track to be delivered to President Trump this summer, according to the Air Force. While the exact delivery date hasn’t yet been determined, it is possible the plane, painted in the red, white and dark-blue scheme favored by the president, could be part of the July festivities celebrating the country’s 250th birthday.
“The Air Force remains committed to expediting delivery of the VC-25 bridge aircraft in support of the Presidential airlift mission, with an anticipated delivery no later than summer 2026," according to an Air Force statement to The Wall Street Journal. Until Wednesday, the Air Force hadn’t provided a specific timeframe for the aircraft’s delivery, although Trump previously said the plane could be ready as soon as February. Trump has planned a series of events throughout the year in commemoration of the country’s 250th birthday.
An event on the National Mall featuring performers and fireworks is slated for July 4. It couldn’t be determined whether the plane will be a fully functional Air Force One by then, beyond likely containing a secure communications system and sporting a new coat of paint. Details of the project remain classified, and an Air Force spokesperson declined to provide more information.
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