President Donald Trump switched back to the previous Air Force One for his flight from Turkey to the UK following the NATO summit, citing nostalgia despite mounting questions over security amid heightened tensions with Iran.
Trump changed planes at RAF Mildenhall on the night of 8 July, opting for the older aircraft 'for old time's sake' after arriving in the UK aboard the $400 million 747-8 donated by Qatar's royal family in 2025. The new jet, which completed its maiden voyage with Trump on 1 July, was sent to Mildenhall so US service members could view it, Trump said on Truth Social. However, images reviewed by the Associated Press indicate the aircraft lacks certain missile detection and countermeasures systems.
When pressed on security concerns, Trump deflected, claiming he is 'number one on their list' regarding Iran and alluding to alleged assassination plots. White House communications director Steven Cheung maintained the new jet carries high-level security protocols. The swap followed US strikes in Iran that Trump said ended the ceasefire.