Air Force One forced to turn back mid-flight: Inside the electrical scare that delayed Trump’s Davos trip

Air Force One, the aircraft synonymous with American presidential power and security, made an unexpected return to Washington this week after developing what officials described as a “minor electrical issue” shortly after takeoff. The incident forced US President Donald Trump to abandon the aircraft and board a backup military plane as he continued his journey to the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

While no injuries were reported and the situation was swiftly contained, the episode has renewed global attention on the aging Air Force One fleet, ongoing delays in replacing the jets, and the immense logistical planning behind presidential travel.

What Happened on Air Force One Mid-Flight?

According to the White House, the issue occurred Tuesday evening, shortly after departure from Washington, DC. Crew members detected an electrical irregularity, prompting a precautionary decision to turn the aircraft back.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the move was taken “out of an abundance of caution.” A pool reporter traveling with the president noted that lights briefly flickered in the press cabin, though no further malfunction was observed during the return flight.

The aircraft landed safely at Joint Base Andrews, where media and staff disembarked while contingency plans were activated.

Trump Boards Backup Aircraft to Continue Davos Trip

Following the Air Force One turnaround, President Trump boarded a US Air Force C-32, a modified Boeing 757 typically used for shorter or domestic presidential trips. The alternative aircraft departed shortly after midnight, allowing Trump to continue to Switzerland with minimal delay.

The presidential delegation included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, and National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett.

Despite the disruption, Trump appeared unfazed, telling reporters before departure that the Davos summit would be “very interesting.”

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Aging Air Force One Jets Under Fresh Scrutiny

The two aircraft that currently serve as Air Force One have been in operation for nearly 40 years, making them among the oldest planes in active presidential service. Although technical issues are rare due to rigorous maintenance, the incident has revived debate over the urgency of replacing the fleet.

Boeing has faced years of delays delivering the next-generation Air Force One aircraft, originally expected earlier in the decade. Cost overruns, supply chain challenges, and security retrofitting have all slowed progress.

In 2006, a similar situation forced then-President George W. Bush to switch planes during a trip in Southeast Asia after a mechanical issue on the tarmac.

Controversy Surrounding a Proposed Qatari Jet

The incident also resurfaced controversy from 2025, when Qatar’s ruling family gifted Trump a luxury Boeing 747-8 intended for presidential use. While the aircraft is currently undergoing extensive security modifications, the proposal sparked ethical and political debate in Washington.

Leavitt joked with reporters that the Qatari jet was sounding like the “much better option” during the brief Air Force One scare.

Broader Context: Davos, Tariffs, and Global Tensions

Trump’s Davos visit comes amid rising geopolitical tension, particularly his threat of tariffs on European nations and renewed rhetoric over Greenland, which he has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring.

The temporary Air Force One setback was expected to slightly delay his arrival, but not disrupt scheduled meetings at the forum, which brings together global leaders, economists, and business executives.

How Rare Are Air Force One Mechanical Issues?

Mechanical incidents involving Air Force One are extremely uncommon, given the aircraft’s multiple redundancies and continuous monitoring. However, recent years have seen isolated cases involving other senior US officials:

• February 2025: Marco Rubio’s military aircraft returned to Washington due to mechanical issues.
• October 2025: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s plane made an emergency landing in Britain following windshield damage.

Each incident has intensified calls for fleet modernization.

FAQ: Air Force One Electrical Issue Explained

Why did Air Force One turn back to Washington?

The aircraft experienced a minor electrical issue shortly after takeoff, prompting a precautionary return.

Was President Trump in danger?

No. Officials said the issue posed no immediate threat and the decision was made purely for safety.

Did Air Force One make an emergency landing?

No emergency landing was declared; the plane returned safely to its departure base.

What plane did Trump use instead of Air Force One?

He boarded a US Air Force C-32, a modified Boeing 757.

How old is the current Air Force One fleet?

The jets have been in service for nearly four decades.

Are Air Force One mechanical problems common?

No. They are rare due to extensive maintenance and multiple backup systems.

Is Air Force One being replaced?

Yes, but Boeing’s replacement program has faced repeated delays.

Did this incident affect the Davos summit schedule?

It caused a short delay but did not cancel Trump’s attendance.