Security concerns prompted Trump to leave Turkey on older Air Force One amid Iran tensions
President Donald Trump flew from Turkey aboard the older Air Force One instead of the newer Qatar-donated jet due in part to security concerns linked to the escalating conflict with Iran, according to four US officials.
Officials said security teams were more confident in the older presidential aircraft, which was purpose-built with advanced protective systems, while the newer Boeing 747—gifted by Qatar and recently retrofitted—was viewed as less suitable for high-risk international missions. Although there was no specific threat against Trump, he had raised concerns about Iran during the NATO summit, saying,
“I’m number one on the list for killing.”
Ahead of Trump’s departure, the Qatari jet was flown to England’s Mildenhall Air Force Base. Trump publicly said the move was to allow US service members “a chance to tour the Aircraft,” adding,
“Everybody is so excited, and we thought that they should be the first.”
After arriving in the UK and switching aircraft, Trump denied there was a security issue but acknowledged Iran-related risks could not be ruled out. Referring to potential threats, he said Air Force One could be on a “dangerous plane because of the sleaze bags we have to deal with,” adding, “These are sick people, so I could see something like that.”
The Qatar-gifted aircraft, valued at about $400 million, has faced legal, ethical and national security scrutiny. While the US Air Force says it is safe and equipped for presidential missions, officials noted it was introduced into service much faster than the next-generation Air Force One jets, which remain under development and are not expected until at least 2028.
READ ALSO: Trump Stuns G7 Leaders with “I’m the Boss” Remark During Final Summit Session
Sources said the Qatar aircraft has always been viewed as a temporary “bridge plane,” with the older Air Force One still preferred for travel to high-risk regions because of its highly specialized defensive capabilities, including mid-air refueling.
