The United States Air Force has announced a delay in the delivery of its two modified Boeing B747-8 aircraft, designated VC-25B, to at least mid-2028. The delay extends the original schedule by at least one year, with costs exceeding USD 5 billion. The goal of the program is to replace the current VC-25A aircraft, introduced in 1990, and to enhance communication capabilities onboard. The delays follow additional contract awards aimed at expanding the jets' communication systems.
The Boeing aircraft, commonly known as Air Force One when the US president is onboard, have been a symbol of the nation's executive transport since their deployment. The current aircraft are over three decades old and are in need of replacement to meet contemporary operational and security needs. The new jets are part of a larger program that also includes modifications to a VIP-configured B747-8 donated by Qatar, which is being refitted to serve as a presidential aircraft from 2026.
According to statements by the Air Force, the extended schedule aligns with future mission requirements and the ongoing requirement to upgrade the jets' communication systems. The program's total cost has grown due to additional capabilities being integrated into the aircraft, with Boeing experiencing charges of USD 2.4 billion against earnings for the project. U.S. President Donald Trump has previously pressed Boeing to deliver the aircraft before the end of his term in early 2029.
The program expansion includes efforts by firms like L3Harris Technologies to support the retrofit of the VIP aircraft, with a total contracted value of USD 15.5 million for the latest enhancement efforts. The delays and costs reflect the complexities of designing and upgrading aircraft for the highest security and communication standards, with officials emphasizing that the modifications can be completed within the revised schedule.
