The current Air Force One aircraft, specifically the Boeing 747-200B models designated VC-25A, have been in service since 1990. These planes were first flown in 1987 but only entered presidential service in 1990 after modifications and interior work were completed
. This means as of 2025, these 747 Air Force One planes are approximately 35 years old in service. The original Boeing 747 model itself was introduced in 1971, but the presidential versions are from the late 1980s era
. The aging planes have undergone upgrades over the years, but maintenance costs are increasing and the Air Force is in the process of replacing them with newer Boeing 747-8 based aircraft, expected to enter service around 2027-2029
. In summary:
- Current Air Force One 747s (VC-25A) started service in 1990
- They are about 35 years old as of 2025
- Replacement 747-8 models (VC-25B) are planned but delayed until late 2020s