Washington, United States – Web Desk: The iconic Boeing VC-25A aircraft that has served as Air Force One for more than 35 years has completed its final presidential mission, marking the end of an era in American aviation history .
The historic aircraft, tail number 29000, entered service in 1990 during the administration of President George H.W. Bush and carried every U.S. president from Bush through Donald Trump on hundreds of diplomatic missions, international summits, and historic state visits around the world .
The Final Flight
President Donald Trump flew aboard the legendary aircraft on its final journey back to Washington after attending the G7 summit in France . Upon landing at Joint Base Andrews, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung shared a photograph of the plane on social media with the caption: “Well done, good and faithful servant. The Last Ride.”
Monica Crowley, Chief of Protocol of the United States, also paid tribute, saying: “For nearly 40 years, it carried every President since George H.W. Bush. It wasn’t the most modern plane, but it was cozy. And every flight with President Trump was incredibly special. Farewell and thank you, SAM 2900.”
Qatar’s $400 Million Gift
The retirement comes as the U.S. government prepares to introduce a luxury Boeing 747-8, reportedly gifted by Qatar and valued at approximately $400 million, as a temporary replacement for the presidential fleet .
President Trump unveiled the new aircraft, designated VC-25B, at Joint Base Andrews on Friday, describing it as “the most luxurious plane in the world” . The jet features a striking red, white, dark blue, and gold livery—a departure from the traditional blue-and-white design .
The Qatari royal family donated the aircraft to the U.S. Department of Defense in May 2025 to be used as part of the Air Force One fleet . The gift has sparked political criticism over its value exceeding federal gift limits, but the White House has maintained that accepting the aircraft is legal .
Transition and Future Plans
The new Qatari jet will begin initial commissioning flights to test modifications before transporting the president . It is expected to serve as an interim “bridge” aircraft until Boeing delivers its two long-promised VC-25B jets, which are intended for long-term Air Force One use but have faced significant production delays .
The existing companion aircraft, tail number 28000, will continue operating alongside the new VC-25B until the replacement fleet is delivered . The retiring aircraft (29000) is now being prepared for display in a museum .
The new aircraft is scheduled to participate in a formation flight over Washington, D.C., on July 4th to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary .
