Air Force Unveils Bold New Livery for Presidential Aircraft

The U.S. Air Force introduces a new red, white, dark blue, and gold color scheme for its executive airlift fleet, including Air Force One. The redesign adapts elements of a previous plan scrapped due to overheating concerns. Delivery of the new jets is expected in 2028, with interim solutions in place.

The U.S. Air Force has announced a vibrant new paint scheme for its executive airlift fleet, including the forthcoming Air Force One. The color palette of red, white, dark blue, and gold signals a significant shift from the existing design that dates back to President Kennedy's era.

This redesign will be applied to the VC-25B, the military's term for the Boeing 747-8i that will become the next-generation presidential aircraft. However, this program is behind schedule, with the anticipated delivery now pushed to 2028, highlighting ongoing challenges as costs soar above $5 billion.

In the interim, the U.S. government is retrofitting a Boeing 747, formerly used by Qatar, to serve as a temporary Air Force One. Additionally, four Boeing 757-200s, which transport top government officials, will also feature the new livery, gradually over their maintenance schedules. Concerns over thermal issues from previous designs remain unaddressed.

(With inputs from agencies.)