New Air Force One Delivery Delayed to 2028 Amid Rising Costs

Project Timeline and Cost Implications

The U.S. Air Force announced on Friday that the delivery of the new Air Force One presidential aircraft has been delayed once again, with the latest estimate pushing completion to mid-2028. This marks another significant setback for the high-profile $5 billion+ program that's already experienced substantial delays. The current Air Force One aircraft has been in service since 1990, making the need for replacement increasingly urgent.

Program Details and Challenges

The new Air Force One program involves the development of two customized Boeing aircraft, with a total cost exceeding $5 billion. The project has faced multiple challenges, including technical issues and production delays. The latest postponement to 2028 represents a four-year delay from the original schedule, raising concerns about program management and Boeing's ability to deliver complex defense projects.

Political Implications

The delay has potential political implications, particularly for President Donald Trump, who had expressed his desire to use the new aircraft before his term ends in January 2029. The postponement could fuel criticism about the project's management and the government's oversight of major defense contracts.

Industry Context

This delay is significant not only for the Air Force One program but also for Boeing's reputation in handling major defense projects. The company's ability to manage complex, high-value contracts is under scrutiny following this and other recent delays in defense programs.