Historic Boeing 747-200B Air Force One Retires After 35 Years as Trump Takes Its Final Presidential Ride

A chapter in American aviation history came to a close this week as the iconic Boeing 747-200B aircraft that served as Air Force One for more than three decades completed its final presidential journey, carrying US President Donald Trump back from an official visit to France.

The aircraft, known by its military designation SAM 2900 , has transported American presidents across the globe since the administration of George H.W. Bush , becoming one of the most recognizable symbols of the US presidency. Its retirement marks the end of nearly 35 years of service at the highest level of government.

Senior White House officials described Trump's return flight as the aircraft's “last ride,” sharing photographs of the historic jet parked on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews . The plane has carried multiple presidents through major global events, diplomatic missions, and historic moments, earning a unique place in modern American history.

Monica Crowley , the US Chief of Protocol, paid tribute to the aircraft on social media, calling it a faithful servant that had transported every president since George H.W. Bush. While noting that the aircraft was no longer among the most modern in the fleet, she praised its reliability and legacy over nearly four decades of operation.

The retirement comes as the US prepares to introduce a modified Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar , which has recently completed flight testing and upgrades. The aircraft has been repainted in a new red, white, and blue colour scheme, replacing the traditional "Jackie Kennedy" design that has long been associated with Air Force One.

According to US officials, the Qatari aircraft will serve as a temporary presidential jet until two next-generation Boeing 747 aircraft ordered by the US Air Force enter service. Those aircraft are part of a programme valued at approximately USD 5.6 billion .

Reports suggest Trump could make the inaugural presidential trip aboard the new aircraft during celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary next month.

Although “Air Force One” refers to any aircraft carrying the US president, the retirement of SAM 2900 represents the end of an era for one of the most famous airplanes ever to fly under the presidential call sign. Its final flight closes a remarkable legacy that spanned generations of American leadership and global diplomacy.