New Boeing 747-8 for Air Force One Program Arrives in Bangor for Training.

ByUjjwal Sukhwani•January 17, 2026 at 06:26 PM•2 min read

MANUFACTURING New Boeing 747-8 for Air Force One Program Arrives in Bangor for Training.

The U.S. Air Force's newly acquired Boeing 747-8, destined for the Air Force One program, landed in Bangor for training operations on Friday.

Key Points

1The first of two former Lufthansa Boeing 747-8 aircraft arrived in Bangor on Friday for the Air Force One support program.
2The U.S. Air Force purchased the two widebody jets for $400 million to serve as training platforms and a source of spare parts.
3The acquisition is necessary because the 747-8 is out of production and differs significantly from the current VC-25A (747-200) fleet.
4The training aircraft will support the delayed VC-25B program, which is now projected to deliver the first fully modified presidential jet in mid-2028.

The U.S. Air Force (USAF) has taken delivery of the first of two Boeing 747-8 Air Force One support aircraft. The plane landed in Bangor, Maine, on Friday, January 16, following its flight from Frankfurt, Germany. This Air Force One training plane is part of a strategic acquisition to support the future presidential fleet.

This aircraft will not serve as the official presidential transport, but it is vital for the Presidential aircraft program. Its primary role is to provide essential training and a source of spare parts. The U.S. Air Force purchase of these two jets addresses key logistical challenges for the new fleet.

Acquisition and Key Details

The USAF confirmed the purchase of two Lufthansa Boeing 747-8 aircraft in December. The total cost for the pair of widebody jets was reported to be $400 million. The first aircraft arrived in the United States this month. The second jet is expected to be delivered before the end of 2026.

Bangor International Airport is a frequent stop for military aircraft. Its long runway and quiet air traffic patterns make it an ideal location for critical training exercises. The new aircraft will be used to train pilots and ground crews on the specific systems of the modern 747-8 variant.

Strategic Need for the 747-8 Intercontinental

This acquisition is a crucial part of the overall Air Force One replacement strategy. The current presidential fleet, designated VC-25A, is based on the older Boeing 747-200 variant. The new aircraft, the VC-25B, uses the much newer Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental model.

Supporting the VC-25B Program

The Air Force needs a dedicated sustainment strategy for the new 747-8 fleet. Boeing ended all 747 production in January 2023. This makes finding new spare parts increasingly difficult over time. The former Lufthansa jets will serve as an invaluable source of 747-8 spare parts.

The main VC-25B modification process is facing significant delays. The two primary aircraft, which are being heavily modified by Boeing in Texas, were originally due in 2024. The U.S. Air Force now projects the first delivery of the fully modified New Air Force One jets in mid-2028. The purchase of these training aircraft is intended to help accelerate the overall program.

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