Overview

• Boeing's $3.9 billion Air Force One replacement program has faced significant delays and cost overruns, with completion now projected as late as 2035.
• President Trump has tasked defense contractor L3Harris with retrofitting a former Qatari Boeing 747, aiming for it to serve as a temporary Air Force One by fall 2025.
• The retrofitted jet, featuring interiors by Alberto Pinto Cabinet, includes gold-colored walls, leather furnishings, and ornate suites reflecting Trump's preference for luxury.
• The tight timeline for the retrofit is expected to limit modifications primarily to paint, communications upgrades, and select defense systems necessary for presidential use.
• Trump administration officials have explored legal action against Boeing and enlisted Elon Musk to ease regulatory hurdles in an effort to accelerate the delayed replacement program.