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

The US Air Force has selected the Boeing 747-8 as the replacement for its current presidential aircraft, which serves as Air Force One. This decision comes after a month of Boeing slowing down production of the four-engine jet due to declining orders.

The Air Force cited the 747-8's 50-year history of building presidential aircraft and its ability to meet the necessary capabilities for the presidential support mission. The contract will be awarded through a sole source process, with negotiations taking several years to complete.

According to Richard Aboulafia, an analyst at Teal Group, this decision may not extend the life of the 747 program, which has struggled to gain traction in recent years.