Boeing Faces Continued Hurdles in Air Force One Project

Boeing is encountering numerous challenges in constructing two new Air Force One aircraft, initially contracted in 2018 for $3.9 billion. These planes, now delayed until at least 2027 and 2028, face issues like supply chain disruptions, inflation, and workforce shortages. The project has already cost Boeing over $2 billion.

Boeing's defense division chief announced on Sunday that the aerospace giant still faces significant hurdles in constructing two delayed U.S. presidential aircraft, known as Air Force One. The contract, signed in 2018 for $3.9 billion, aimed for delivery by December 2024, but completion is now expected by 2027 or 2028.

Ted Colbert, head of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, noted the ongoing challenges, including supply chain disruptions, inflation, and workforce shortages. Boeing is heavily modifying two 747-8 aircraft for this project, which has already cost the company over $2 billion. Colbert emphasized the team's relentless efforts and significant investments in workforce training and factory floor efficiency.

The 747-8s are designed to function as an airborne White House in worst-case scenarios like nuclear war, featuring advanced military avionics, communications, and a self-defense system. The Biden administration last year decided to keep an Air Force One paint scheme similar to the current design, reversing a previous decision by Donald Trump. Boeing's current CEO, Dave Calhoun, acknowledged that critics were right about the contract being underpriced. A 2022 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office warned of further delays due to labor market issues, low security clearance rates, and the need for an alternative interior supplier.

(With inputs from agencies.)