A retrofitted Qatar-owned jet is taking off and is being used for President Donald Trump’s trip to North Dakota as Air Force One, according to multiple reports. Media outlets describe the aircraft as having been refurbished and repainted in a scheme that matches Trump’s preferred colours, including a navy-coloured underside with red and gold stripes. The reporting also indicates the plane is being presented as an Air Force One aircraft for the duration of the trip.
Channel NewsAsia says the U.S. Air Force does little to change the aircraft’s interior cabin layout, while focusing on security upgrades. CNA reports that the Air Force’s security modifications cost less than US$400 million, and emphasizes that the work is aimed primarily at protections for the presidential mission rather than major alterations to the cabin. Other outlets similarly frame the announcement around the plane’s readiness, refurbishment, and appearance as it departs for the presidential travel.
The articles collectively describe the aircraft’s origin, its refurbishment and repainting, and the general scope and cost of security-related work conducted for the Air Force One role.
