Boeing 747-8 Chosen as Next Air Force One
The US Air Force has chosen the Boeing 747-8 as the next generation of Air Force One, replacing the current VC-25A jets that have been in service since the early 1990s. The decision comes after a month-long wait, during which time Boeing slowed production of the four-engine aircraft to 1.3 per month due to declining orders.
The Air Force Secretary Deborah James said in a statement that the 747-8 is the only aircraft manufactured in the US that meets the necessary capabilities for the presidential support mission. The plane will be modified to include features such as retractable stairways, baggage loaders, and advanced telecommunications systems.
Boeing welcomed the decision, citing the company's existing production line and the fact that the 747-8 is the last American-built four-engine jumbo jet in production. Analyst Richard Aboulafia noted that while the order will add a huge cost to Boeing, it may also be an opportunity for the program to come to an end.