Boeing VC-25A Steps Down as New Air Force One Arrives, June 19

The Boeing VC-25A that has served as Air Force One since 1990 landed at Joint Base Andrews on June 18 after what appears to be its final mission as the primary presidential aircraft. The heavily modified 747-200B has carried every U.S. president since George H.W. Bush, flying roughly 238 miles of internal wiring and defensive countermeasures. A new VC-25B converted from a Qatar-donated Boeing 747-8 is expected to enter service this summer, shifting the iconic jet to backup duties.

The End of a 35-Year Run

White House officials bid farewell to the VC-25A after it returned from the G7 summit in France. White House communications director Steve Cheung posted on social media: “The last ride. Well done, good and faithful servant.” Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino wrote that he had been fortunate to fly on the iconic plane for 5.5 years of its 35 years serving U.S. presidents.

Only two VC-25A jets were ever built, with tail numbers 28000 and 29000. Delivered in 1990, they replaced older 707-based aircraft and became instantly recognizable by their blue-and-white livery. The planes carry roughly 238 miles of internal wiring, shielding against electromagnetic pulse, secure communications, and defensive countermeasures. With four GE CF6 engines, each VC-25A can fly about 7,800 miles without refueling and cruise near 630 mph.

What Happens to the Old Jets

The U.S. Air Force confirmed both VC-25A aircraft will remain in the active executive airlift fleet, shifting to backup and Air Force Two duties. Full retirement is not expected until around 2029, once new purpose-built VC-25B jets are operational. The Air Force stated the VC-25B Bridge aircraft will soon join the active executive airlift fleet alongside the VC-25A and C-32, a modified Boeing 757.

New Aircraft Takes the Spotlight

A converted Boeing 747-8, known as the VC-25B “Bridge,” is expected to enter service this summer in a new red, white, and blue paint scheme. The new aircraft features a paint scheme designed with Trump’s input, marking a major shift from the iconic white and two-toned blue livery designed by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Three 747-800s are being modified as VC-25Bs to fill the role of Air Force One, with two additional planes Boeing is modifying not expected to be completed for roughly two more years.

The Qatar Donation and Controversy

The VC-25B Bridge is a luxury jet donated by the government of Qatar to bridge the gap until the two purpose-built VC-25Bs are delivered. The plane underwent significant changes to operate as a suitable replacement for Air Force One, with U.S. spy and security agencies stripping it down and rebuilding it to include necessary security features. The donation faced over a year of scrutiny from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and some security officials who criticized the acceptance of the expensive gift and worried about security vulnerabilities.

Final Thoughts

The VC-25A’s transition to backup status marks a generational shift in presidential aviation after 35 years of service. The new Qatar-donated VC-25B arrives this summer, though the old jets remain available if needed until 2029.

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