Thu Feb 20 08:49:59 UTC 2025: ## Trump Threatens to Drop Boeing from Air Force One Project
**Washington, D.C. –** President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that his administration is exploring alternatives to Boeing for the construction of two new Air Force One presidential planes, citing unacceptable delays. The $3.9 billion contract, awarded in 2018, was initially slated for completion by the end of 2024 but has been pushed back to 2027 and 2028 due to a subcontractor bankruptcy, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other production setbacks.
Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing’s performance, stating he is considering foreign manufacturers but ruled out Airbus. The current Air Force One planes are facing escalating maintenance costs and obsolete parts.
This announcement marks another blow to Boeing, which reported an $11.8 billion loss last year and is currently grappling with the aftermath of a lengthy labor strike and recent safety concerns following a 737 MAX emergency landing in January 2024. The company is also burdened by legacy defense contracts resulting in financial losses. The Air Force One project’s delays add further pressure to the struggling aerospace giant.
First Piper 