Before Boeing became the primary manufacturer of Air Force One, the iconic presidential aircraft was constructed by other manufacturers, setting the stage for the program’s evolution amid modern challenges. President Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with Boeing on February 19, 2025, regarding delays in the replacement program. On May 2, 2025, Trump directed L3Harris to develop an interim Air Force One, while Boeing now targets delivery of the new jets in 2027, before Trump leaves office, despite ongoing contract issues highlighted on May 13, 2025.
Historical Builders of Presidential Aircraft
Before Boeing’s dominance in constructing presidential aircraft, other manufacturers played key roles in the early stages of the program. These manufacturers shifted from basic military transports to customized versions for presidential use. One such manufacturer was Lockheed, which produced key models such as the VC-130 Hercules variants used for VIP transport in the mid-20th century. These builders adapted commercial airliners for secure presidential use, showcasing engineering feats without the benefit of modern avionics.
Lockheed’s Contributions to Air Force One Predecessors
Lockheed’s role in the history of presidential aircraft is significant, although it did not produce the first dedicated presidential jet, the VC-137, which was a modified Boeing 707. Lockheed did, however, work on other platforms like the C-130 for emergency presidential flights. Lockheed’s innovations in secure communications and defensive systems influenced later designs, with contracts for Air Force One modifications predating the 1990s.
Transition from Lockheed to Boeing Dominance
Boeing secured the primary contract for Air Force One in the 1990s, replacing Lockheed’s earlier involvement in certain presidential builds. The 2001 selection of Boeing’s 747-200B for the current VC-25A fleet marked the end of Lockheed’s direct involvement in core Air Force One production. This shift involved Boeing acquiring or partnering with previous suppliers, leading to the long-term contract that persists despite recent scrutiny.
Boeing’s Long-Standing Air Force One Contract
In 2015, Boeing secured a contract to replace the aging VC-25A fleet with two new 747-8 jets, initially valued at over $3.9 billion. The contract’s scope included advanced modifications for aerial refueling, missile defense, and executive interiors, as per official Air Force specifications. The foundational role of Boeing’s contract in the program’s history was underscored in an analysis on May 13, 2025.
Recent Delays in Boeing’s Delivery Timeline
Several factors have contributed to delays in Boeing’s delivery timeline, including supply chain issues and technical challenges, pushing back from original 2024 targets. On May 8, 2025, Boeing announced an updated plan to deliver new Air Force One jets in 2027, aligned with the end of Trump’s term. These delays have resulted in cost overruns exceeding $2 billion beyond the contract, impacting taxpayer funds and operational readiness.
Trump’s Public Criticism of Boeing
Trump’s dissatisfaction with Boeing was made public on February 19, 2025, when he stated, “I’m not happy with Boeing” over Air Force One. This dissatisfaction was further highlighted on May 2, 2025, when Trump publicly questioned Boeing’s reliability on the replacement program. These remarks reflect tensions between the administration and Boeing, influencing interim solutions.
Shift to L3Harris for Interim Air Force One
In response to Boeing’s delays, Trump directed L3Harris to build an interim Air Force One on May 2, 2025. L3Harris’s expertise in defense avionics and integration positions them to modify existing platforms for temporary presidential use. The potential timelines and costs for this interim project are yet to be determined, but it ensures continuity until Boeing’s 2027 delivery.
More from MorningOverview