President Trump announced that the Boeing 747-8 serving as the new Air Force One will soon be taken out of service for approximately a month so it can receive additional security upgrades, saying the aircraft will be “maxed out” with enhanced defensive capabilities. The announcement comes after questions were raised about the plane’s protection systems following a recent overseas trip.
Speaking to reporters after returning from the FIFA World Cup final, President Trump dismissed concerns that the aircraft was inadequately equipped, saying it already has significant capabilities. He added that officials plan to send the plane in for one final round of upgrades to ensure it meets the highest possible security standards for presidential travel.
The temporary Air Force One entered service earlier this month after an accelerated refurbishment by defense contractor L3Harris. It is serving as a bridge aircraft while Boeing continues work on two next-generation presidential aircraft that have faced years of delays and are not expected to be delivered until 2028.
Questions about the aircraft intensified after President Trump flew aboard an older Air Force One for part of a recent overseas trip during heightened tensions with Iran. Reports suggested the switch was prompted by concerns that the newer aircraft had not yet received every defensive system typically found on presidential aircraft, though the White House has emphasized that multiple security measures remain in place.
President Trump did not specify exactly what new equipment would be added but said the work would take about a month before the aircraft returns to service. He expressed confidence that once the upgrades are complete, the plane will fully meet the demanding requirements for transporting the commander in chief around the world.
The upgraded Boeing 747 will continue serving as Air Force One until the long-delayed fleet replacement program is completed. The administration has said the interim aircraft provides a practical solution while waiting for Boeing to deliver the new presidential jets currently under construction.
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