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Air Force One Retires: Farewell to Historic Boeing 747s After 35 Years

KVIA•Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 5:02 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

The White House recently bid farewell to the Boeing 747-200 aircraft, known as VC-25A, which has served as Air Force One since 1990. This marks the end of an era as the planes are being replaced by modified Boeing 747-800s, with the first of these new aircraft expected to be delivered by summer 2026. The existing fleet has a rich history, including transporting multiple presidents and responding to critical events like the September 11 attacks. As the Air Force transitions to these new planes, the fate of the retired VC-25As remains uncertain, although they will continue to be part of the fleet. The modifications for the new aircraft include advanced security features and a new color scheme favored by former President Trump.

Key Details: • The first new VC-25B aircraft is expected by summer 2026. • The current VC-25A fleet has been in service since 1990. • The new planes will feature a red, white, gold, and dark blue color scheme. • Air Force Secretary indicated retrofitting the Qatari jet will cost less than $400 million. • The VC-25A planes have a significant historical legacy, including pivotal moments in U.S. history.

military government history aviation airforceone

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Washington, DCWhite HouseJoint Base AndrewsAir ForceTroy MeinkDan ScavinoSteve CheungMajors Airport

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