Full article at source:
Simple FlyingWhy America's New Air Force One Has Been Delayed for Years
The US Air Force One replacement program (VC-25B) has been repeatedly delayed and is now not expected to arrive until the late 2020s instead of the original 2024 target. Boeing's conversion of two 747-8 airframes into specialized presidential aircraft has been complicated by supply-chain disruptions, workforce shortages, design challenges, and a fixed-price contract structure that has made the program financially difficult.
Why it matters
While this primarily affects US government operations, it reflects broader challenges in defense aerospace programs, specialized aircraft modifications, and contract management that can impact the aviation industry's capacity and financial health. The delays and cost overruns demonstrate how military customization and fixed-price contracts can strain major manufacturers.