Air Force Accepts VC-25B Bridge and Sends Modified 747-8 to Joint Base Andrews

Overview

• The VC-25B Bridge was formally delivered to the U.S. Air Force and turned over to the Presidential Airlift Group, and the aircraft arrived at Joint Base Andrews on Monday to begin on-base operations.
• L3Harris completed an accelerated commercial-to-government conversion of a Boeing 747-8, installing enhanced communications, security systems, and mission-specific modifications before transfer to the Air Force.
• Commissioning flights at Andrews will validate the jet’s mission capability and finalize operating protocols required for presidential transport before the aircraft can carry the President.
• The Bridge program includes a leased Atlas Air 747-8F for pilot qualification and two former Lufthansa 747-8i airframes for crew training and spare parts to smooth the transition to the new platform.
• The interim jet relieves pressure on aging VC-25A aircraft and keeps presidential travel ready, but the long-term Boeing VC-25B replacements remain delayed to about 2028 and the donated aircraft has drawn congressional questions about cost, security, and acceptance choices.