President Trump Boards New Air Force One for the First Time

 President Trump Boards New Air Force One for the First Time

Published: July 1, 2026

President Donald Trump made history on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, by boarding and flying aboard the United States' newly introduced Air Force One for the very first time, marking a significant moment for his administration and the presidential fleet.

The inaugural flight took the president from Joint Base Andrews to Medora, where he attended the dedication of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. The event is part of a broader series of activities celebrating America's upcoming 250th anniversary. �

Reuters +1

The aircraft is a refurbished Boeing 747 that was previously owned by the government of Qatar before being transferred to the United States and extensively modified to meet presidential security and communications standards. Officials have described it as a temporary replacement for the aging Air Force One fleet while newly built presidential aircraft continue to undergo development. �

AP News +1

The new aircraft features a striking exterior finished in red, white, dark blue, and gold—a color scheme personally favored by President Trump. Inside, the plane retains luxury accommodations while incorporating secure communications, upgraded defensive systems, and mission equipment required for presidential travel. �

The Wall Street Journal +1

The aircraft's debut has also generated political debate. Critics have questioned the acceptance of a foreign-donated aircraft and the costs associated with its refurbishment, while the White House has maintained that the transfer complied with applicable legal requirements and that the aircraft underwent extensive security inspections before entering service. �

Reuters +1

During the trip, President Trump highlighted themes of American strength, patriotism, and national pride ahead of the country's Independence Day celebrations and the 250th anniversary commemorations. The North Dakota visit was also intended to honor the legacy of former President Theodore Roosevelt, whose leadership and conservation efforts remain central to American history. �

Reuters +1

The new Air Force One is expected to remain in presidential service until the next generation of permanently built presidential aircraft is delivered in the coming years. Until then, it will be used for both domestic and international travel as the official aircraft of the President of the United States. �

The Wall Street Journal +1