President Donald Trump on Air Force One [Credit: Evan El-Amin/Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
The VC-25A, a modified Boeing 747 that served as Air Force One for 35 years, has likely completed its final mission carrying a U.S. president.
White House officials posted tributes to the jet after its last flight, signaling its probable retirement from presidential service.
New Boeing 747-8-based replacements (VC-25Bs) are delayed until 2028, leading to an interim 747-8 donated by Qatar (VC-25B Bridge) set to enter service this summer.
The current VC-25As, known for their advanced defense and communication systems, will remain part of the presidential airlift fleet, though their future function is undisclosed.
A heavily modified Boeing 747—referred to by the military as a VC-25A—that has flown U.S. presidents around the world for 35 years has likely operated as Air Force One for the last time.
Shortly after President Donald Trump returned to Washington, D.C., from France early Thursday, two top White House officials posted tributes to the jet.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
