Trump switches between Air Force One aircraft during return from NATO summit

US President Donald Trump used two different presidential aircraft while returning from the NATO summit in Turkey.

US President Donald Trump used two different presidential aircraft while returning from the NATO summit in Turkey, drawing fresh attention to the newly modified Boeing 747 that was donated by Qatar. Trump flew from Ankara to Britain aboard the older Air Force One before boarding the newer aircraft at RAF Mildenhall for the final leg of his journey back to Washington.

The decision surprised many observers because the new aircraft had carried Trump to Turkey for its first official overseas trip. The visit took place during a period of rising tensions in the Middle East as the conflict involving Iran continued to escalate. Although questions were raised about why the president changed planes, Trump did not provide a detailed explanation.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he chose to travel on the older light blue Air Force One between Turkey and Britain “for old time’s sake.” He explained that the newer aircraft stopped at the British military base so American service members stationed there could tour the plane. Video footage later showed Trump boarding the newly refurbished aircraft before departing for the United States.

The aircraft, a Boeing 747 donated by the Qatari government, features a new red, white, dark blue and gold paint scheme selected by Trump. It was upgraded by defense contractor L3Harris Technologies to serve as a temporary presidential aircraft while Boeing continues work on the next generation Air Force One fleet.

During a news conference in Ankara, Trump was asked whether security concerns or possible threats influenced his decision to switch aircraft. He did not directly answer the question but acknowledged that Iran considers him a target. Trump said he was aware of the potential threat but insisted it would not affect his actions.

The aircraft has remained at the center of political debate since it was accepted by the United States. Experts have questioned whether the rapid conversion process allowed enough time to install the same level of security systems found on the current presidential fleet. They have pointed to the need for advanced communications equipment, protection against electronic surveillance and defensive systems capable of countering missile threats.

Trump had earlier said the aircraft would visit several large military bases in Europe so American troops could see it. However, RAF Mildenhall appeared to be its only stop before the flight back to the United States. After arriving in Britain, Trump said the service members at the base were excited to see the aircraft and described it as an impressive addition to the presidential fleet.

Democratic lawmakers have continued to criticise the project. They estimate that converting the aircraft has cost more than one billion dollars and have raised concerns about whether the plane meets the highest security standards required for presidential travel. Administration officials have defended the project and said the aircraft satisfies all necessary requirements for carrying the president safely.

The upgraded Boeing 747 is expected to serve as an interim solution while Boeing completes two specially built Air Force One aircraft under a contract signed in 2018. The project has faced repeated delays and rising costs, with deliveries now expected in the middle of 2028. The programme is several years behind schedule, making it unlikely that the new American built aircraft will enter service before the end of Trump’s current term.