Air Force One set for upgrade with new Boeing jets

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Global Industry News

Air Force One set for upgrade with new Boeing jets

Policy

VC-25A Air Force One | Wikipedia

By Sky Industry News

Jul 15, 2025

In recent developments, the United States is preparing to replace its aging VC-25A Air Force One fleet with a new aircraft. The current VC-25A fleet, based on the Boeing 747-200B, has been in service for over thirty years. The replacement will be the VC-25B fleet, based on the newer Boeing 747-8i model.

The U.S. Department of Defense recently accepted a luxury Boeing 747-8 from Qatar's royal family as an interim solution while awaiting the completion of the VC-25B program. This aircraft was officially accepted on May 21, 2025, according to Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell.

Currently registered as P4-HBJ and formerly A7-HBJ, this Qatari aircraft was initially part of Qatar Amiri Flight's VIP fleet. Built in 2012 and powered by four General Electric GEnx engines, it boasts impressive performance specifications such as a maximum takeoff weight of 987,000 pounds and a range of 7,730 nautical miles.

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As for modifications, L3Harris Technologies is rumored to be handling retrofitting tasks that include installing secure communications systems and other defensive measures. These upgrades aim to meet Air Force One standards.

Historically, the existing VC-25A aircraft were delivered in 1990 during President George H.W. Bush's administration. These planes have unique features like aerial refueling capability and countermeasures against missiles.

Looking forward, two Boeing 747-8i aircraft originally ordered by Transaero are being modified into VC-25B models at Boeing's San Antonio facility. Although initially scheduled for delivery in 2024, delays have pushed this date back to possibly as late as 2029.

The upcoming VC-25B will feature various upgrades similar to its predecessor but with modern enhancements such as infrared countermeasures and missile defense systems. It will also retain aerial refueling capabilities and incorporate advanced communication systems.

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Air Force One set for upgrade with new Boeing jets

GLOBAL INDUSTRY NEWS

Asia's airlines blame supply chain woes for disrupted operations

Qantas and Qatar Airways: Planned partnership in the Australian aviation industry under the microscope

Spirit Airlines delays release of Q3 financial results as debt restructuring talks heat up

Riyadh Air plans new jet order decision early next year

Calls for a blanket ban on politicians receiving free flight upgrades

Wizz Air Loses Challenge Against EU-Approved Romanian Aid for TAROM

Southwest, Other Airlines Plan a Shake-Up. Why They Need More to Boost Their Stocks.

One of Boeing's biggest customers leveled fresh criticism over ongoing 737 Max delivery delays

Low-Cost Airlines Innovate with Subscription Models

LA Considers $25 And $30 Minimum Wages For Hotel And Airport Workers

Airlines are on the hook for more than you think if something goes wrong with your trip

WA Labor & Industries plans to create new airline worker protections

Airlines must now give automatic refunds for significant delays. Here's what to know.

American Airlines Technical Operations, Fleet Service, Cargo and Central Load Planning team members ratify new agreement

Spirit Airlines Pursues Bankruptcy as a Path to Tie-Up With Frontier

American Airlines fined $50M for violating disability laws

Canada's flight attendant union applauds NDP bill to end unpaid work in the airline sector

American Airlines testing new technology that would crack down on boarding

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Alaska Airlines Just Made Its Loyalty Program Even More Lucrative With New Rewards, Better Upgrades, and More

Food safety problem closes Detroit airline kitchen leaving 200 flights without meals

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Organizations Included in this History

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