The “decoy” Air Force One flight carrying members of President Donald Trump’s administration was closely guarded by U.S. fighter jets during its journey to the United Kingdom. A senior official from the Trump administration revealed this security measure to Fox News, adding an unexpected layer to concerns about the safety of the press corps and staff.
This vigilance counters media fears about potential threats facing Trump’s departure from Ankara, Turkey, last month. The revelation underscores the extraordinary precautions involved in Trump’s aircraft switch, leaving the familiar Air Force One to continue to the U.K. without him on board.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and the press corps traveled on the “decoy” aircraft under fighter escort. The officials were informed Trump was not aboard. Throughout the flight, staff and reporters were instructed to keep window shades down, obscuring their view of the fighter jets accompanying them.
A pool report noted that the airport offered no indications of unusual activity. Press vehicles were positioned at a distance in the motorcade, minimizing observation. Bags of snack mix bearing the presidential seal awaited the press on the original plane.
During the flight, a Secret Service agent reinforced the instruction to keep window shades closed. When a photographer briefly raised a shade, they were immediately asked to lower it. The need for closed shades was explained as a request from the Secret Service.
Trump shared his perspective on the decision for an aircraft swap during a press engagement from Geneva, Ohio, where he attended the Freedom 250 Patriot Games. He indicated the directive originated from his security detail and military personnel, expressing trust in their judgment.
“Well, it’s only up to the Secret Service; I just follow what they’d like to do,” Trump remarked, attributing the choice entirely to their assessment.
Trump suggested that the plane on which he traveled might have faced heightened risks after switching. He surmised hostile actors would prioritize targeting the plane he was aboard.
“I think actually the plane that I flew on was at greater risk,” Trump told reporters, speculating it was the likelier target.
The State Department chose not to issue comments on the involvement of fighter jets. The situation amplifies ongoing concerns regarding Trump’s status as a target, particularly amid increased conflict with Iran.
Nicholas Kalman contributed reporting. Peter Doocy remains active as a rotating anchor for The Sunday Briefing on Fox News Channel.