Trump’s Air Force One Paint Job: A Return to Bold Colors
The U.S. Air Force presidential and VIP fleet is undergoing a significant aesthetic change, with the classic Kennedy-era paint colors being replaced by a new design reflecting President Trump’s preferences. This shift will impact aircraft including the recently donated Qatari jet and the two Boeing 747s currently being converted to serve as the next generation of Air Force One.
Sources confirm that some aircraft are already being repainted in a striking combination of dark navy blue, deep red, and gold during scheduled repairs and maintenance. This marks a departure from the robin’s egg blue color scheme that has been synonymous with the presidential fleet since the Kennedy administration.
A Return to a Previous Vision
This isn’t the first time President Trump has sought to redefine the look of Air Force One. During his first term, he unveiled a model airplane showcasing his desired paint colors. However, President Joe Biden subsequently canceled that particular design for the VC-25Bs, the Boeing 747 airliners designated for presidential transport.
The current directive extends beyond Air Force One itself, encompassing other aircraft within the executive fleet. This includes the new 747-8i received from Qatar and the C-32 aircraft, often referred to as Air Force Two when the Vice President is onboard.
Fleet-Wide Transformation
The C-32 aircraft, used to transport high-priority personnel like the First Lady or cabinet officials, are also receiving the new paint job. L3 Harris, a major defense contractor, has been upgrading these planes at its facility in Greenville, Texas. The first C-32 has already been painted and is expected to be delivered to the Air Force in the coming months. Images of the newly painted C-32, reported by The War Zone, showcase the dramatic color change.
Boeing continues its work on the next generation of Air Force One planes, a project initiated with a deal signed in 2018. Simultaneously, the Qatari-donated aircraft is undergoing refurbishment and is anticipated to be operational as Air Force One by this summer.
A Bold New Look for Presidential Travel
This decision signals a return to President Trump’s vision for a more visually impactful Air Force One. The new color scheme is expected to be a prominent symbol of the presidential fleet for years to come, representing a distinct aesthetic shift from the legacy of its predecessors. The change is a clear indication of the administration’s desire to project a specific image through one of the most recognizable symbols of American power.
