Listen to the article
The U.S. military announced Thursday that Air Force One will receive a new color scheme featuring red, white, gold, and dark blue, aligning with President Donald Trump’s vision for the presidential aircraft.
This updated design will extend beyond just the primary presidential jet to include smaller aircraft routinely used for transporting other high-ranking government officials, according to military officials. The Air Force released renderings of the new exterior, which match a model airplane that has been visible during meetings with foreign dignitaries in the Oval Office.
Boeing is currently modifying two 747-800 aircraft designated to replace the aging fleet of two Boeing 747-200 planes that have served as Air Force One for decades. These modified jumbo jets will incorporate the new color scheme as part of their comprehensive upgrades.
The design change represents a significant departure from the iconic light blue and white livery that has been synonymous with Air Force One since the Kennedy administration. That classic design, with its distinctive light blue lower fuselage and white top, has been recognized globally as a symbol of American presidential power and diplomacy since the 1960s.
Trump initially pushed for a redesign in 2018, advocating for a color scheme that closely resembled his personal aircraft – predominantly white on top with dark navy blue on the bottom and a red stripe running from cockpit to tail. However, an Air Force review determined that the darker colors would increase costs and potentially delay delivery of the new aircraft.
President Biden reversed Trump’s decision in March 2023, opting to maintain the traditional color scheme. With Trump’s return to office, the aircraft’s appearance is once again changing to reflect his preferences.
“We want power blue, not baby blue,” Trump told reporters last month, referring to his desire to modify the current color scheme. “Everything has its time and place. We’ll be changing the colors,” he added, signaling his intent to put his mark on this visible symbol of the presidency.
The Air Force statement also indicated that a third Boeing 747-8i jet will receive the same paint treatment. This third aircraft entered the presidential fleet through unusual circumstances. In May, then-Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth formally accepted a luxury Boeing 747 jet from Qatar for use as Air Force One, a transaction that raised questions among ethics experts about accepting such an expensive gift from a foreign government.
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink later testified to Congress that security modifications to this gifted aircraft would cost less than $400 million, though specific details about these upgrades remain classified. These modifications typically include advanced communications equipment, defensive systems, and other specialized features required for presidential transport.
The presidential aircraft represents more than just transportation – it serves as a flying White House, equipped with secure communications and the ability to function as a command center during crises. The distinctive appearance of Air Force One has long been recognized worldwide as a symbol of American power and presence.
The timeline for completing the new aircraft with their updated color scheme remains unclear, as the extensive modifications required for presidential use typically take several years. Boeing has faced numerous delays and cost overruns with the program, which was initially projected to deliver the new aircraft by 2024.
This cosmetic change to such a visible symbol of the U.S. presidency highlights how even design elements of government assets can reflect the personal preferences of the commander-in-chief and become part of a president’s legacy.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
10 Comments
Interesting that the new Air Force One design will feature red, white, and blue. Definitely a bold move, though I’m curious to see the final result. Could be a striking look.
The red, white, and blue scheme does seem to align with Trump’s vision for the presidential aircraft. It will be a noticeable departure from the classic light blue and white livery.
The new Air Force One color scheme is certainly eye-catching. While I respect the desire to put a personal stamp on the presidential aircraft, I hope the design still maintains an element of dignity and gravitas associated with the office.
Updating the look of Air Force One is a delicate balance. It will be interesting to see how the public reception to the red, white, and blue scheme evolves over time.
I’m a bit skeptical of the new color scheme for Air Force One. The existing design is so iconic and recognizable globally. Updating it to red, white, and blue feels a bit heavy-handed to me.
I can understand the desire to put a personal stamp on Air Force One, but the classic design has stood the test of time for good reason. Let’s see how the new look is received.
I appreciate the desire to update the look of Air Force One, but I’m not sure the red, white, and blue scheme is the right choice. The existing design has become a symbol of American leadership and I worry this new look could be seen as overly partisan.
Regardless of one’s political leanings, Air Force One should aim to represent the entire country, not just one administration. I hope the new design can still capture that sense of national unity.
The Air Force One redesign is an interesting move. I’m curious to hear more about the reasoning behind the red, white, and blue color scheme. Is it meant to be a bold statement or simply a refresh?
Updating the look of Air Force One is a big decision. While the classic design is iconic, a fresh take could be visually striking if done well. I’ll reserve judgment until I see the final result.