Air Force One Deal Sealed

Two new Air Force One aircraft will be delivered to the White House for $3.9 billion dollars, the White House and Boeing announced on Tuesday. The customized 747-8 airplanes will replace the two aging 747-200s that currently serve as the presidential fleet. President Trump negotiated a good deal on behalf of the American people, Boeing said in a tweet announcing the sale, and a White House spokesman said the contract will save taxpayers more than $1.4 billion. However, some observers noted that it was unclear whether there had been any substantial change in the price since negotiations began.

Two new Air Force One aircraft will be delivered to the White House for $3.9 billion dollars, the White House and Boeing announced on Tuesday. The customized 747-8 airplanes will replace the two aging 747-200s that currently serve as the presidential fleet. "President Trump negotiated a good deal on behalf of the American people," Boeing said in a tweet announcing the sale, and a White House spokesman said the contract will save taxpayers "more than $1.4 billion." However, some observers noted that it was unclear whether there had been any substantial change in the price since negotiations began. A month before his inauguration, Mr. Trump told reporters that the Air Force One program was estimated to cost $4 billion, and added, "I think that's ridiculous." Aviation analyst Richard Aboulafia, of the Teal Group, told reporters this week, "There's no evidence of a discount," and described the claim as "political theater."

The 747-8 is faster, emits less carbon dioxide and adds 1,000 NM in range, Boeing says, compared to the 747-200. It's also 18 feet longer and adds 75 tons to the max takeoff weight. The aircraft's 4,000-square-foot interior will include a conference room, a presidential suite and quarters for advisers, Secret Service officers and the press corps, according to the BBC. Various reports estimate the delivery date between 2021 and 2024.A medical suite includes facilities for surgery, and a doctor is always on board.Each airplane will be equipped with two large galleys that can prepare food for up to 100 people at a time, a Boeing official said.The airplane also features military avionics, advanced secure communications, in-flight refueling capabilities, armored windows and a self-defense system. The current Air Force One airplanes entered service in 1990 under former President George H.W. Bush, and they are nearing the end of their planned lifespan, according to CNN.