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Trump Revamps Air Force One: New Bold Design Unveiled

2/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump is changing Air Force One from Kennedy-era blue and white to red, white, dark blue, and gold.
The change applies to two new Boeing VC-25B jets and a Qatari 747-8i, with the first C-32 repainted.
The Qatari jet is valued at $400 million and should be operational by summer 2026.
L3Harris Technologies will oversee the modifications after the redesign paused under the Biden administration for overheating concerns.

History

Historical Context

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy introduced a new blue and white design for Air Force One, enhancing its role as a symbol of American prestige. This followed the establishment of the 1401st Helicopter Flight in 1955, which began presidential airlift operations. Trump's recent redesign decision reflects ongoing changes in presidential branding and may influence future aircraft aesthetics, paralleling the $400 million Qatari 747-8i set for 2026.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump is changing Air Force One from Kennedy-era blue and white to red, white, dark blue, and gold.
The change applies to two new Boeing VC-25B jets and a Qatari 747-8i, with the first C-32 repainted.
The Qatari jet is valued at $400 million and should be operational by summer 2026.
L3Harris Technologies will oversee the modifications after the redesign paused under the Biden administration for overheating concerns.

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