Boeing's 747-8 Chosen as Next Generation Air Force One

The US Air Force has chosen the Boeing 747-8 as its next-generation presidential aircraft, also known as Air Force One. The decision comes after a month of production slowdowns for the 747-8 due to declining orders.

According to Air Force Secretary Deborah James, 'The Boeing 747-8 is the only aircraft manufactured in the United States that when fully missionized meets the necessary capabilities established to execute the presidential support mission.'

The new plane will replace the current VC-25A jets, which have been in operation since the early 1990s. The Air Force plans to award a sole-source contract to Boeing and negotiate modifications for presidential use.

Boeing welcomed the decision as it helps sustain production of the 747-8 program, which had slowed down due to declining orders.