Trump Criticizes Boeing Over Air Force One Delays, Considers Alternatives

President Trump expresses frustration with Boeing's years-long delays on the Air Force One project, as losses mount and new options are explored.

President Trump has voiced dissatisfaction with Boeing over delays in delivering two new Air Force One jets, originally scheduled for 2024 but now expected in 2027 and 2028.
The fixed-price $3.9 billion contract, negotiated by Trump in 2018, has resulted in over $2 billion in losses for Boeing due to cost overruns and delays caused by supply chain issues, pandemic impacts, and worker shortages.
Trump has tasked Elon Musk, now leading the Department of Government Efficiency, with expediting the project, including examining ways to streamline requirements and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
The president has explored alternatives, such as retrofitting a used Boeing 747, but ruled out purchasing aircraft from Airbus or other European manufacturers.
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg acknowledged the delays and praised Musk's involvement in addressing constraints, though challenges remain in meeting the revised delivery timeline.