US President Donald Trump expressed frustration with Boeing’s delay in delivering two new Air Force One planes. He criticized the manufacturer for running behind schedule. The contract signed during his first term was initially planned for delivery in 2024, but Boeing has pushed it to 2027 or 2028.
Trump stated that Boeing took too long to complete the planes and suggested looking for alternatives. While rejecting the idea of switching to Airbus, he mentioned the possibility of purchasing a used aircraft and converting it for residential use.
His remarks come after he recently toured a 13-year-old Boeing 747-800 once owned by the Qatari royal family. During his presidency, Trump forced Boeing to renegotiate the Air Force One contract, arguing that the original deal was too expensive.
That renegotiation already cost Boeing billions, and ongoing delays have only increased the company’s financial strain. Outfitting the aircraft for presidential duties requires advanced security, communications, and accessibility, which are complex and costly.
Boeing’s struggles extend beyond Air Force One. The company suffered major financial losses in 2024, reporting a $11.8 billion deficit for the year. In the last quarter alone, amid worker strikes and production setbacks, Boeing lost $3.8 billion.
Problems in its commercial aircraft division and defense programs have further damaged the company’s reputation. Despite these frustrations, Trump remains committed to Boeing for future presidential aircraft.
However, his willingness to consider alternatives signals growing impatience with the manufacturer’s performance. With delays mounting and financial losses piling up, Boeing faces increasing pressure to deliver.
The Air Force One replacements remain unfinished, and whether Boeing can meet its revised timeline remains uncertain. With Trump unhappy with Boeing, speculation continues over whether the US government will explore other options.
