Air Force One is getting a makeover. The new planes, designed to serve as Air Force One, will sport colors chosen by Donald Trump: red, white, gold, and dark blue. These colors were initially suggested during his first term, but the Biden administration had put a halt to the change.
Trump described the new Air Force One as “incredible,” emphasizing that it should reflect American pride in red, white, and blue. The iconic blue-and-white color scheme has been in place since the Kennedy administration, and Trump’s proposed changes led to speculation that he wanted to mimic the colors of his personal Boeing 757.
In 2022, the Biden administration rejected the new design due to concerns about cost and technical issues. Officials stated that darker colors could raise temperatures on the underside of the aircraft, risking damage to components. This cautious approach highlights ongoing debates about military expenditure and aesthetics.
A fresh design suggestion emerged in 2023, favoring a version close to the traditional blue livery but with a darker shade. This compromise shows a blend of respect for history while updating the iconic look.
When Trump was reelected in 2025, his Air Force One design took center stage again. During his inauguration celebration, a model of the new scheme was showcased on a cake at the Commander In Chief Ball. Additionally, a Department of Homeland Security Boeing 737 began flying with a similar paint job, indicating that this theme may reach further than just Air Force One.
The Air Force is planning to apply this new scheme not only to the two modified Boeing 747s but also to a Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar, expected to enter service soon. Furthermore, maintenance will include repainting four C-32 aircraft in this striking new design.
As discussions around military aircraft aesthetics continue, public opinions vary. Some embrace the change, believing it encapsulates patriotism, while others argue for preserving traditional designs. This topic has sparked conversations on social media, with users sharing opinions about how the new colors reflect or distort national identity.
With the backdrop of military history, the Air Force One repaint saga blends tradition with modernization. As the aircraft evolves visually, it also touches on deeper themes of leadership, identity, and national pride in the ever-changing landscape of American politics.
For more insights on the background of Air Force One designs, you can explore the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force’s page on this iconic aircraft.
