February 16, 2025
Elon Musk Visits Boeing to Review Air Force One Progress

Elon Musk Visits Boeing to Review Air Force One Progress

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk reportedly visited Boeing facilities in San Antonio, Texas to review the progress on the delayed Air Force One project.
Render of new Boeing Air Force One in flight.
Image Credit: Boeing

In a move that raised eyebrows, Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, visited Boeing’s facilities in San Antonio, Texas, in December 2024. The purpose of his visit was reportedly to review the progress of the new Air Force One aircraft. The newly formed ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ (DOGE) saw the appointment of Musk to assess government wastage and inefficiencies.

The new Air Force One aircraft is currently under development by Boeing, and is now three years behind original schedule. Boeing has overrun the budget for the new aircraft by approximately $2.7 billion dollars.   

Air Force One Project: A History of Delays and Budget Overruns


Delays and budget overruns have plagued the new Air Force One project. The project, originally scheduled for completion in 2024, now faces a completion date of 2027.

It now has a projected cost of $5.3 billion, a significant increase from the initial estimate of $3.9 billion.  

Musk’s Visit: Collaboration or Competition?

Musk’s visit to Boeing, a major competitor in the aerospace industry, sparked speculation about his intentions. Some saw it as a sign of collaboration, with Musk potentially offering his expertise to help Boeing overcome the challenges facing the Air Force One project.

Others saw it as a strategic move by Musk to gain insights into Boeing’s plans. Some speculated that he could potentially identify areas where SpaceX could offer a more competitive solution.

While both companies have stated that the meeting was professional and productive, the specific outcomes of Musk’s visit remain unclear.

It is possible that Musk’s insights and expertise were valuable to Boeing as they continue to develop the new Air Force One aircraft. However, it is also possible that the visit was a way for Musk to gather information about Boeing’s progress for the benefit of SpaceX.

The Future of Air Force One


A report on the project status will be produced by Boeing in February, amid the delays and challenges. Whether Boeing can meet the revised 2027 schedule remains to be seen.

The new aircraft will be based on the Boeing 747-8, a larger and more modern version of the current Air Force One. It will feature a number of improvements, including enhanced security features, improved communications systems, and increased fuel efficiency.  

Conclusion

Elon Musk’s visit to Boeing to review the progress of the new Air Force One project was a surprising but potentially significant event.

Musk’s presence at Boeing comes as no surprise to some, with his increased profile already drawing a characterization as ‘First Buddy Elonia Trump’.

His recent involvement in the Boeing project is nevertheless notable; given his obvious connection with aerospace rival company SpaceX.

It remains to be seen whether his influence, or potential interference, will become a further thorn in the side of the US plane manufacturer.

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