Delays in the construction of new Air Force One aircraft by Boeing have prompted the Trump administration to seek an interim solution. A former Qatari government Boeing 747 is being retrofitted by L3Harris to serve as a temporary presidential aircraft, expected to be ready by the fall.
Boeing, despite receiving a $3.9 billion contract in 2018, is significantly behind schedule. Initial projections placed the delivery of the new Air Force One aircraft around 2024, but Boeing now estimates delivery won't occur until around 2035.
The decision to refurbish a pre-owned aircraft highlights the urgency of the situation. The use of this temporary solution is a direct response to the substantial delays caused by Boeing.
Former Secretary of the Air Force, Frank Kendall, considered canceling Boeing's contract entirely, exploring alternatives such as working with Airbus or using a different type of aircraft.
The article emphasizes the critical need for a functional presidential aircraft and the significant implications of the delays for presidential travel and national security.