US President Donald Trump’s aircraft, Air Force One, returned to Joint Base Andrews shortly after takeoff on Tuesday evening while en route to Davos, Switzerland, according to the Associated Press (AP).
The unexpected turnaround came roughly an hour after departure, raising questions about the safety and condition of the aircraft used to ferry the American president across the globe.
Minor electrical issue detected by flight crew
Trump was travelling to Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum 2026, where he is scheduled to deliver a keynote address before global political and business leaders. However, the journey was briefly interrupted after the flight crew detected what the White House later described as a “minor electrical issue,” reported AP.
White House says decision taken as precaution
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the decision to return was taken soon after takeoff, emphasising that the move was made purely as a precaution. “Out of an abundance of caution, the crew decided to turn the aircraft around,” she told reporters, adding that there was no immediate threat to the president or passengers on board, reported AP.
Press cabin lights briefly went out mid-flight
A journalist travelling with the presidential press pool said that the lights in the press cabin briefly went out shortly after departure. While no explanation was provided at the time, reporters were informed around 30 minutes into the flight that the aircraft would be returning to base, reported AP.
Trump to travel to Davos on alternate aircraft
Trump is expected to continue his trip to Davos on a different aircraft, ensuring that his participation in the high-profile summit remains on schedule. His presence at the forum comes at a sensitive moment, as he faces mounting diplomatic attention following recent remarks aimed at US allies in the European Union, including comments related to Greenland that have stirred debate in international circles.
On Thursday, on the margins of the World Economic Forum, Trump will participate in the “Board of Peace Charter announcement”, where nations would be invited to sign the charter, joining the body aimed for Gaza`s redevelopment under his comprehensive plan to end the conflict.
Davos is hosting global leaders and business heavyweights as the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum began January 19 and will run till January 23.
Trump`s presence at Davos comes amidst tensions between the US and European nations over his push to acquire Greenland and impose tariffs on countries until “a deal” is reached to purchase Greenland.
Incident highlights ageing Air Force One fleet
The incident has also renewed focus on the ageing Air Force One fleet. The two aircraft currently serving as Air Force One have been in operation for nearly four decades. Aerospace giant Boeing has been working on replacement planes, but the programme has faced repeated delays.
Aircraft designed as flying command centres
Air Force One aircraft are extensively modified to function as airborne command centres, equipped with advanced communications systems, radiation shielding and anti-missile defences. These features allow the US president to remain in constant contact with military and government officials and to issue orders from anywhere in the world.
Qatar-gifted Boeing jet undergoing retrofitting
Last year, Trump accepted a luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet gifted by the ruling family of Qatar, intended to eventually join the Air Force One fleet. The move drew scrutiny, and the aircraft is currently undergoing extensive retrofitting to meet strict US security requirements. Leavitt even joked to reporters on Tuesday night that the Qatari jet was sounding “much better” at the moment.
Air Force One’s long history with US presidents
Boeing notes that it has been transporting US presidents since 1943, when Franklin D. Roosevelt became the first commander-in-chief to fly while in office. From the early Dixie Clipper to today’s VC-25A and the future VC-25B, Air Force One remains one of the most powerful and recognisable symbols of the American presidency.
(With inputs from Associated Press)
Why Air Force One carrying Donald Trump returned mid-air en route to Davos
