Donald Trump stated on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) that his administration was “looking at alternatives” to Boeing following delays in delivering two new fashions of the U.S. presidential Air Force One aircraft.
“I’m not happy with Boeing,” the president advised reporters aboard his present jet. “We’re looking at alternatives because it’s taking Boeing too long.”
The U.S. aerospace big agreed in 2018 to provide two 747-8 planes by the tip of 2024 for $3.9 billion — each prepared to transport whoever occupied the White House at the moment.
But a subcontractor went bankrupt and the coronavirus pandemic disrupted manufacturing, forcing Boeing to push again the supply date to 2027 and 2028.
Mr. Trump stated he was open to shopping for planes “from another country” however wouldn’t contemplate Boeing’s European rival Airbus to construct the jets.
What is Air Force One aircraft?
Air Force One is a extremely personalized aircraft that features high-tech communication amenities, a medical bay, and a protection system.
The present Air Force One jets face rising upkeep prices and use components which might be more and more out of date.
Trump’s feedback are the newest blow to embattled Boeing, which reported an $11.8-billion loss final 12 months.
The firm continues to expertise successful from a greater than seven-week labor strike that shuttered two main meeting vegetation.
Boeing’s efficiency was additionally marred by a troubled flight in January 2024 when a 737 MAX flown by Alaska Airlines made an emergency touchdown after the aircraft suffered a mid-flight blowout of a window panel.
Following that incident, Boeing confronted intensified scrutiny from US air regulators and slowed output.
Boeing can also be affected by legacy fixed-cost protection contracts which have led to losses for the corporate.
Published – February 20, 2025 02:19 pm IST
