Boeing’s Air Force One Delivery Tied to Relaxed Rules

Boeing has proposed delivering the delayed next-generation Air Force One jets by 2027, dependent on the Air Force and White House relaxing certain contract requirements, such as security clearance standards for workers. The original 2024 delivery date was pushed back due to supply chain problems, workforce shortages, and complex interior and wiring work. To help Boeing accelerate production, the government has temporarily eased some security requirements. The Air Force, working with L3Harris Technologies, is refurbishing a former Qatari Boeing 747 as an interim presidential aircraft, expected to be ready by fall. President Donald Trump, who negotiated the deal during his first term, has voiced frustration over the delays but dismissed switching to Airbus, and Elon Musk has provided advisory support to Boeing on the project. The prospect of a 2027 delivery has given Boeing’s stock a modest boost and is being closely monitored by investors for its implications on the defense sector.