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The current Air Force One aircraft, used to transport the US President, are over 30 years old and in need of replacement. Boeing has been tasked with developing new aircraft, but the program has faced delays and budget overruns. The United States Air Force (USAF) selected the Boeing 747-8 to replace the existing VC-25As as VC-25Bs in 2015. However, delivery is now scheduled for 2027 after several postponements.
Boeing is currently facing challenges such as supply chain issues and difficulties with wiring development. The company also had to cancel a contract with GDC Technics LLC due to significant delays. Additionally, an Airworthiness Directive in 2023 required repairs that further delayed progress.
In 2017, the Trump Administration decided to modify two already-built Boeing 747-8s into VC-25Bs instead of purchasing new ones. These planes were initially ordered by Transaero but were not taken up after the airline's bankruptcy in 2015. Modifications on these aircraft have proven complex and costly.
