President Donald Trump returned from a NATO summit in Turkey aboard an older Air Force One jet instead of the newly retrofitted plane gifted by Qatar. This unexpected switch coincides with ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Trump stated he flew on the legacy jet “for old time’s sake,” and both aircraft made a surprise stop at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, a base used by U.S. troops.
Upon arrival at the base, Trump boarded the newer jet and departed for Joint Base Andrews, outside Washington. He shared on social media that the stop was requested by the servicemembers who were excited to see the aircraft. Trump noted that the detour caused “virtually no deviation of flightpath,” and denied that security concerns regarding Iran influenced the decision to fly two planes home.
During the flight, reporters noted that they were asked to keep their window blinds closed. Trump suggested it was due to “sleazebags over here,” referencing Iran. He reported that he did not have to close the blinds in his compartment.
Questions arose about the security features of the new Qatari-gifted jet, which cost the U.S. $400 million to retrofit. Images indicate it lacks some missile detection systems present in the older jets. This swap occurred shortly after U.S. military strikes in Iran. Trump announced on social media the plane would visit the U.K. base so troops could tour the aircraft, while he opted to fly home on an older model previously used as Air Force One.
Trump did not clarify if missing security systems influenced the aircraft change. U.S. Air Force referred questions to the White House. A spokesman stated the new Air Force One was equipped with high-level security protocols for the President’s safety. He acknowledged there are many threats against the President, requiring various security strategies.
During Trump’s flight from Turkey, he was on one of the older Boeing VC-25As. Its transponder was turned off for part of the journey, a security measure in high-risk areas. Other leaders’ flights maintained trackable transponders. Iran’s missiles and drones can reach Turkey, but lack the range to strike England.
The Air Force had prioritized some upgrades for the Qatari jet, known as the ‘bridge’ aircraft, but excluded final engineering modifications intended for the new Air Force One. Expert Jeremiah Gertler suggested these changes limited its suitability for international travel.
Trump’s first journey on the new jet was to North Dakota last week. The original jets were built near the Cold War’s end, designed to withstand nuclear effects with advanced security and medical facilities. They can refuel mid-air in emergencies, although this has never occurred with a president onboard.
The permanent upgrade of the Air Force One jets faces delays and is now expected in 2028.