Trump reveals why Secret Service changed his plane

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has confirmed that his surprise plane switch during his departure from Turkey last month was carried out on the advice of the Secret Service, amid concerns over a potential threat linked to Iran.

Trump said the aircraft he had initially been expected to travel on could have faced a “greater risk,” adding that he does not trust Iran. His remarks came after reports revealed that his departure from Ankara following the NATO summit involved an elaborate security operation.

According to reports, Trump publicly boarded Air Force One in front of cameras, creating the impression that he would fly out of Turkey on the presidential aircraft. However, he was later secretly transferred to a smaller C-32A military aircraft. The move was reportedly carried out using an airport catering truck to conceal his transfer.

Journalists and some White House staff reportedly remained under the impression that Trump was aboard Air Force One. Reporters were also instructed to keep their window shades closed, adding to the secrecy surrounding the operation.

Trump said he followed the Secret Service’s instructions when the aircraft change was made and did not challenge the security decision.

The unusual operation reportedly stemmed from heightened concerns over Iranian threats against the US president. Trump’s latest comments have now confirmed key details of the previously undisclosed flight arrangement.

The episode has drawn attention because of the extraordinary measures used to conceal the president’s movements. It also highlights the heightened security concerns surrounding Trump amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran.

For a president whose movements are normally tracked closely by the media and security officials, the covert transfer from one aircraft to another remains one of the most unusual presidential travel episodes of the year.