Air Force One set for upgrade with new Boeing jets

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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

Air India Warned Over Crew Fatigue and Training Failures Following Fatal Crash

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy may deny flights from Mexico over broken aviation agreement

American Airlines Launches Ultra‑Long‑Haul DFW–Manila Flights

Thousands of flights canceled or delayed across America's busiest airports

Emirates operates with SAF at London Heathrow Airport

British Airways Introduces Brunch Service on Long-Haul Flights

AirAsia FREE SEATS is BACK! - Book Cheap Flight now!

FAA Investigating After JetBlue Plane Skids Off Runway

Virgin Atlantic Offers Family-Friendly Holiday Packages

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New Heathrow Security Rule Makes Packing Bags Easier for Travelers

Alaska Airlines Adding More Boeing 787 to Boost Seattle Hub

Ryanair cancels 170 flights, disrupts over 30,000 passengers on French ATC strike

What to Know About Travel to Europe During This Record-Breaking Heatwave

Airport Workers Save the Day After Woman Loses Diamond from Her Engagement Ring in Baggage Carousel

I never talk to strangers on the plane. After my dad died, a passenger helped me talk about my grief.

American Airlines reveals new summer route: Miami → Rome

Budget UK airline launches huge sale with £29 flights to 475 holiday hotspots – but you’ll have to be quick

Delta Passengers Can Book a ‘Last Mile’ Private Jet Charter to Europe This Summer

Honeywell Runway Safety Technology Selected by Southwest Airlines for Fleetwide Installation

Southwest Airlines Adds Cockpit Alerts to Boost Runway Safety

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This Airline Is Going to Start Handing Out $675 Fines to 'Unruly' Passengers: 'It Is Unacceptable'

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FAA Admits Uncertainty On Drone Numbers In U.S. Airspace, Raising Safety Concerns

Travelers are taking extreme measures and using hacks to avoid airline baggage fees

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United Airlines’ Uniforms Get A Facelift—And A Political Filter

United Continues to Face Catering Chaos at San Francisco

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Organizations Included in this History

More News

Aviation Comments

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