**Top US Air Force Jets to Feature Red, White, Gold, and Blue Design**
It has been announced that a segment of the aircraft designated for Air Force VIP transportation will gradually receive a fresh paint design. Notably, Trump is set to acquire a new Boeing 747-8 that will serve as Air Force One, a present from Qatar. Ultimately, this aircraft will be housed in Trump’s Presidential Library and is planned as a temporary measure until the two specially modified Boeing 747-8 jets, known as VC-25Bs, are delivered (which are significantly delayed and far over budget due to the extensive modifications necessary).
These will not be the only aircraft receiving the updated design. The Air Force also operates eight modified Boeing 757-200s, identified as C-32As, utilized for VIP transportation, which includes the vice president and other senior White House personnel. Four of these eight jets are anticipated to receive the new color scheme, with the first one recently repainted.
Dating back to the Kennedy administration, these jets have sported a white and pastel blue scheme. However, Trump has opted for a redesign featuring red, white, gold, and dark blue. This choice is clearly influenced by Trump’s personal Boeing 757-200, previously known as “Trump Force One.” While the design differs somewhat, the source of the gold theme is unmistakable. 😉
Trump’s new Boeing 747-8 is slated to enter service by this summer, with the repainting of the four Boeing 757-200s scheduled during regular maintenance periods. As mentioned, the initial plane has been repainted and is expected to be back in the air in the coming months.
**Trump’s Desire for This New Livery Dates Back to His First Term**
The idea of Trump advocating for a new paint scheme for Air Force One and other significant Air Force aircraft is not a new one. Trump initially introduced the concept during his first term in 2019. Back then, Trump stated that “Air Force One is going to be incredible,” and “it’s going to be the top of the line, the top in the world, and it’s going to be red, white and blue, which I think is appropriate.”
Nevertheless, in 2023, Biden overturned Trump’s initiative to implement a distinctly different livery on the forthcoming new Air Force One jets. Biden opted to maintain tradition in the new design, making only slight adjustments compared to the prior livery, aimed at giving it a more contemporary appearance.
The Biden administration also asserted its decision to dismiss Trump’s proposed livery for another reason: a thermal analysis indicated that the dark blue in the design would necessitate additional FAA qualification testing for various commercial components, due to increased heat in specific environments. Now, however, it appears Trump is reverting to his original desire, reversing Biden’s prior decision.
**Final Thoughts**
It appears Trump is getting his preference regarding the new paint scheme for Air Force One, which will feature red, white, gold, and blue. Additionally, other leading Air Force jets used for VIP transport will also don this refreshed livery. This marks a significant shift away from the long-standing baby blue and white design that has been utilized by the government for many years.
**What are your thoughts on the new Air Force One livery?**