President Donald Trump announced on July 8, 2026, that he will not be returning to the United States from Turkey on the new Air Force One, which was gifted to him by Qatar. Instead, the aircraft will be flown to RAF Mildenhall air base in the United Kingdom. Trump stated on Truth Social that the trip is intended to allow military personnel to view the new addition to the Air Force fleet. At a NATO summit press conference, he confirmed he would return to the U.S. using 'normal methods.'
Trump referred to the aircraft as 'truly magnificent' and mentioned its purpose of visiting military bases in Europe. When asked about security concerns related to Iran, Trump noted that he is a target but did not elaborate on the reasons for the change in travel plans. The new Air Force One, a retrofitted 747 valued at $400 million, serves as a temporary solution until two new aircraft are completed, which are expected to be delivered in 2028.
Concerns have been raised regarding the aircraft's security features, as an Associated Press analysis indicated it lacks some missile detection systems present in older models. Democrats, including Rep. Joe Courtney and Sen. Chris Murphy, have criticized the acceptance of the Qatari-gifted jet and the associated costs, with Courtney proposing legislation to prevent the transfer of the aircraft to Trump's presidential library after his term.