WASHINGTON — On Tuesday evening, Air Force One, carrying President Donald Trump, made an unexpected return to Joint Base Andrews roughly an hour after setting off for Switzerland.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explained that the aircraft turned back as a precautionary measure following the detection of a “minor electrical issue” shortly after departure.
On board, a journalist noted that the press cabin lights flickered momentarily after takeoff, though no immediate reason was provided at that time. About 30 minutes into the journey, passengers were informed of the decision to head back.
Trump is set to continue his journey to the World Economic Forum in Davos on a different aircraft.
The current Air Force One planes have been in service for nearly 40 years. While Boeing is developing replacements, the project has encountered several setbacks. These aircraft are equipped with advanced survivability features, including radiation shielding and antimissile defenses, along with sophisticated communication systems that enable the president to stay in touch with military operations globally.
In a controversial move last year, Qatar’s ruling family presented Trump with a luxurious Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet to expand the Air Force One fleet. This aircraft is currently being upgraded to meet stringent security standards.
Leavitt joked to reporters on Air Force One Tuesday night that a Qatari jet was sounding “much better” right now.
Last February, an Air Force plane carrying Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Germany had to return to Washington because of a mechanical issue. In October, a military plane carrying Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had to make an emergency landing in United Kingdom due to a crack in the windshield.
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