New Gold, Red, White and Blue Paint Scheme Planned for Future Air Force One

Post by : Saif

The next generation of Air Force One will look very different from the aircraft Americans have known for decades. The United States Air Force has announced a new paint scheme using gold, red, white, and dark blue across its executive aircraft fleet, including the planes that carry the U.S. president.

This change marks a major shift from the current light blue and white design that has been in use since the early 1960s. That older look was introduced during the time of President John F. Kennedy and became one of the most recognized aircraft designs in the world.

The updated style also brings back parts of a design once suggested by President Donald Trump during his earlier term. His earlier proposal used stronger red, white, and blue colors. That version was later dropped after engineers warned that darker colors could lead to overheating and add technical risk, time, and cost.

Now, officials say a revised design that includes gold has been approved and will be used on new presidential and senior government aircraft.

The repainting plan will apply to the VC-25B aircraft. This is the military name for the modified Boeing 747-8 jets that are being prepared to serve as the next Air Force One planes. These aircraft are not normal passenger jets. They are rebuilt with advanced communication tools, defense systems, and secure technology so the president can lead the country from the air if needed.

However, the program has faced many delays. The delivery of the two main replacement aircraft is now expected around 2028, about four years later than first planned. Costs have also increased. Boeing originally agreed to a fixed-price contract of $3.9 billion in 2018, but reports say the total cost of the effort has now gone beyond $5 billion.

Because of these delays, the government is using a temporary solution. Defense contractor L3Harris Technologies has been asked to modify another Boeing 747, previously used by the Qatari government, so it can serve as an interim presidential aircraft. This stopgap jet is being upgraded with security and communication systems for official use.

The Air Force also confirmed that other executive transport aircraft will receive the new color scheme. These include four modified Boeing 757-200 jets used to carry the vice president, cabinet members, members of Congress, and other top officials. The repainting will happen during normal maintenance periods to avoid extra downtime. One aircraft has already been repainted and is expected to return to service soon.

Officials did not give full technical details about how the new paint design avoids the overheating concerns that blocked the earlier darker scheme. Aircraft paint is not only about looks. Color choice affects heat absorption, fuel efficiency, maintenance needs, and even how sensitive equipment performs. A darker surface can absorb more sunlight and raise surface temperature, which can create engineering challenges.

From an editorial point of view, the Air Force One design is more than decoration. It is a flying symbol of the United States. Wherever it lands, it represents the country and the presidency. That is why even color choices become matters of public debate.

Some people support the change, saying a bold new look reflects a modern era and strong national identity. Others prefer the classic blue-and-white design because it connects to history and tradition. Both views are understandable. National symbols often carry emotional value beyond their practical purpose.

At the same time, design should not distract from the bigger issue — performance and reliability. These aircraft must be safe, secure, and ready at all times. Paint style matters, but mission ability matters more.

As the long-delayed replacement jets move closer to completion, the new color scheme signals a visual reset for presidential air travel. Whether welcomed or criticized, the redesigned Air Force One will likely become one of the most talked-about aircraft looks of the coming decade.

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