Air Force One Retires After Nearly Four Decades in Service

‍WASHINGTON — After carrying US President Donald Trump back from his recent visit to France, Air Force One has retired.

The Boeing 747-200B has indeed carried several US presidents during its time in service. For nearly 40 years, the 747 has carried every US president since George HW Bush.

The aircraft's final flight, which touched down at Joint Base Andrews (ADW) on June 18, drew sentimental thoughts from officials who commented on Air Force One's final flight.

White House communications director Steven Cheung posted an image of the retiring aircraft on X, saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Despite not being a modern next-generation aircraft, the 747-200B will be remembered for proudly serving the Trump administration.

Chief of Protocol Monica Crowley, who was on Air Force One's final flight, stated on X, "Farewell and thank you, SAM 2900. You served all of us well."

A replacement for Air Force One

Air Force One is a call sign given to any aircraft carrying a US president. It therefore does not belong to one specific aircraft. In fact, multiple aircraft can be designated the title.

A Boeing 747 given to President Trump by the state of Qatar last year will replace the retired 747-200B. This aircraft has already undergone modifications and completed testing for service entry.

It has been decked out in a red, white, and blue livery, marking a departure from the usual blue-and-white scheme used for Air Force One aircraft.

NBC News reports that President Trump is considering the 747's trip to Mount Rushmore (South Dakota) in July for its inaugural flight. This will be part of the USA's 250th Anniversary Celebrations.

However, the 747 may remain in use only until two new presidential 747s enter service.