The exterior paint colors of the U.S. Air Force presidential and VIP fleet are undergoing a significant transformation, transitioning from the classic Kennedy-era robin’s egg blue to a new design favored by President Trump. This design will feature dark navy blue, deep red, and gold hues and will be applied to various aircraft, including a jet donated by Qatar and two Boeing planes being converted for service as Air Force One.
As part of this update, some aircraft are already being repainted during their scheduled maintenance, with officials indicating that the new colors are being introduced as these planes come in for services. The paint changes are mandated for not just the iconic Air Force One jets but also for smaller C-32 aircraft, which are utilized to transport high-ranking officials, including the first lady and cabinet members.
During his first term, President Trump showcased a prototype model of the Air Force One with the newly proposed colors; however, the design was ultimately scrapped by President Joe Biden for the VC-25Bs, which are the military’s version of the Boeing 747.
The upgrade of Air Force Two, the designation used when the vice president flies, is currently being handled by L3 Harris at their facility in Greenville, Texas. Meanwhile, Boeing continues work on a new generation of Air Force One jets, stemming from a contract approved in 2018. The Qatar-donated plane, which is undergoing refurbishment, is anticipated to be operational by summer.
The first of the C-32 aircraft, now adorned in the new color scheme, is set to be delivered to the Air Force in the coming months, providing a fresh and modernized look for U.S. government aviation that reflects current leadership preferences. This change symbolizes a new chapter in the visual identity of the presidential fleet, aiming to blend modern aesthetics with historical legacy.