The critical review phase of the future VC-25B (Air Force One) has been completed in parts, with just a few issues remaining to be resolved.
This critical review of future Air Force One it was done completely online, so that the agglomeration restrictions due to Covid-19 were respected. The information came from Will Roper, assistant secretary of the USAF for acquisition of technology and logistics.
The least secret parts of the aircraft's design were reviewed using video and text chat programs. The Most Secret Parts of the New US Presidential Plane “were reviewed in secure conference rooms by a smaller number of employees,” says Roper.
Some issues prevented the final completion of the critical review of the VC-25B. “From the layman's point of view, it is complete.", says Roper "From the procurement professional's point of view, there are some links to close."
“Many engineers, tools and talent that would be dedicated to other commercial functions at Boeing are now available to help with this program,” says Roper, noting that the company's commercial aircraft production is idle. "I don't see any receipts now [on schedule] for the VC-25B because of Covid-19."
The USAF ordered two Boeing 747-8s, which are undergoing a complete modification so that both become the new Air Force One, which should enter service in 2024. With that, the current VC-25A/B which are two Boeing 747- 200, will be retired. Since the 90s, the aircraft have been carrying out the mission of transporting the president of the United States.
source: Flight Global/ Edition: Aeroflap
