President Donald Trump is set to visit North Dakota, marking his initial journey aboard the new Air Force One. This new aircraft, a Boeing 747-8, was a gift from the Qatari government in the previous year. It replaces the older military-grade 747-2, which has served presidential duties for over three decades.
The new plane, valued at $400 million, is expected to remain in service until the Air Force receives a new fleet of Boeing aircraft in 2028. During his North Dakota visit, President Trump will participate in a train ride and welcome ceremony celebrating America’s 250th anniversary and visit the Teddy Roosevelt Presidential Library.
Before departing from Joint Base Andrews, President Trump expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming flight and lauded the airplane design. He stated, “This will be the first flight of what I think is maybe the greatest commercial plane ever built.” He also noted the advanced security features and enhancements added to make the aircraft suitable for presidential use.
The president assured that the upgrade was economical, costing taxpayers “very little” compared to potential alternative methods. He acknowledged the aircraft as a gift from a country that has maintained good relations with the United States. Reflecting on the old Air Force One, Trump mentioned it appeared outdated next to the new aircraft, affirming, “We’re really proud of this. The country’s very proud of it.”
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