President Trump left the NATO summit in Turkey earlier this month aboard the older Air Force One jet rather than the newer plane donated by Qatar, U.S. officials told CBS News. The decision followed a credible threat from Iran and allied proxy groups, including a detected plot to fire a missile at the plane.

Trump initially flew to Ankara, Turkey, on the newly donated $400 million Boeing 747-8 Air Force One, gifted by the Qatari government and retrofitted for presidential use. However, he departed Ankara for the United Kingdom on the older Air Force One before switching back to the newer plane to complete his return to the United States.

CBS News reported that the swap was made at the suggestion of the Secret Service as a precaution amid escalating tensions in the U.S.-Iran conflict. The older Air Force One jets are equipped with laser technology designed to blind incoming missiles and employ diversion tactics, according to sources familiar with the matter.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, "The new Air Force One is perfectly safe for the President's travels, but will receive additional upgrades and enhancements in the fall which will take approximately one month to complete. During that time, the President will fly on the old Air Force One."

The initial news of threats from Iranian proxies was first reported by The New York Times. As tensions with Iran escalate, President Trump has acknowledged possible threats to his safety, noting on Truth Social earlier this month that 1,000 missiles were prepared for immediate use if Iran attempts to assassinate him.

This incident has raised questions about the security measures surrounding the president's new plane amid ongoing geopolitical risks.

Sources