The Pentagon estimates that the Air Force One replacement program will cost $2.87bn (£2.26bn) between 2015 and 2021. During his own presidential campaign, Mr Trump travelled across the US on his private plane, a Boeing 757-200. The idea of designating specific military aircraft to transport the President arose in 1943. A number of aircraft types have been used as Air Force One since the creation of the presidential fleet, starting with two Lockheed Constellations in the late 1950s: Columbine II and Columbine III. It also has included two Boeing 707s, introduced in the 1960s and 1970s. Since 1990, the presidential fleet has comprised two Boeing VC-25As, which are specifically configured.
The request made now by Donald Trump became quickly controversial. Security arguments are to be discussed.
