New Air Force One Design: A Patriotic Makeover
In a bold transformation, the iconic Air Force One is set to receive a new design that embodies a patriotic theme. The U.S. military has announced a striking red, white, gold, and dark blue color scheme, a plan originally championed by former President Donald Trump and set to redefine the aircraft’s appearance.
The updated paint job will not only apply to Air Force One but also to other jets frequently used by high-ranking government officials. This redesign aligns with a model frequently displayed in the Oval Office during meetings with international leaders, according to a rendering released by the military.
Boeing is modifying two of its 747-800 aircraft to replace the current fleet of aging Boeing 747-200 planes. These aircraft assume the Air Force One call sign when the President is on board.
Back in 2018, Trump proposed a redesign that replaced the classic Kennedy-era blue-and-white palette with a white and navy scheme. A dark red stripe was also part of this proposed design, reminiscent of Trump’s personal aircraft. However, concerns about increased costs and potential delays led President Joe Biden to revert the decision in March 2023.
Last month, Trump expressed his vision for the aircraft saying, “we want power blue, not baby blue,” indicating a preference for a bolder color scheme. He noted, “Everything has its time and place. We’ll be changing the colors.”
Additionally, a third 747-8i Boeing jet will adopt the new colors. This development comes amid recent scrutiny over Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s acceptance of a luxury Boeing 747 jet from Qatar as a gift, raising ethical questions.
In June, Air Force Secretary Troy Meink informed lawmakers that the security enhancements for the jet would cost under $400 million, though specific details were not disclosed.
Read More Here
