Lufthansa is reducing its Boeing 747-8 fleet by two aircraft, selling them to the U.S. Air Force for $400 million. The planes will be used to support the Air Force One fleet, including crew training and spare parts sustainment. This move is unusual given Lufthansa’s previous intention to maintain its entire 747-8 fleet, but it addresses a critical need for the U.S. military as it prepares for long-term presidential transport upgrades.
Fleet Reduction and Sale Details
Lufthansa currently operates 19 Boeing 747-8s, one of the few airlines still flying the passenger version of this iconic jet. The two planes being sold—registrations D-ABYD (leaving in January 2026) and D-ABYG (leaving in Q3 2026)—were initially intended for the now-defunct Russian airline Transaero but were never delivered. Lufthansa’s decision to sell them now is surprising, as they had previously planned to retrofit the entire fleet.
Why the U.S. Air Force Needs These Jets
The U.S. Air Force is in the process of modernizing its presidential fleet with two heavily customized Boeing 747-8s, a project already years behind schedule. The current timeline estimates delivery by 2028 at the earliest. The new planes differ significantly from the existing 747-200 used as Air Force One, necessitating a dedicated training program and a sustainable supply of spare parts.
The two Lufthansa jets will fill this gap, providing essential support for the transition and ensuring long-term operational readiness. Given that the 747-8 is no longer in production, acquiring additional airframes is a strategic move to mitigate risks associated with obsolescence and maintenance.
Broader Context: Presidential Transport and Fleet Modernization
The modernization of the Air Force One fleet has been a complex and costly undertaking. Former President Trump had even explored using a Boeing 747-8 gifted by Qatar as an interim solution, reflecting dissatisfaction with the existing aircraft. The project’s delays have further underscored the need for proactive planning and redundancy in presidential transport capabilities.
The acquisition of these Lufthansa jets ensures that the Air Force One fleet will have the necessary infrastructure to operate effectively for years to come.
In conclusion, Lufthansa’s sale of two Boeing 747-8s to the U.S. Air Force is a pragmatic move that addresses a critical operational need. The planes will play a vital role in supporting the next generation of Air Force One, ensuring continuity and reliability in presidential transport for the long term.
