US President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that his administration is "exploring alternatives" to Boeing due to the delays in delivering two new models of the US presidential Air Force One aircraft.
The current situation with Boeing is not satisfactory, the president said in a press conference. "We're exploring other options because Boeing is taking too long to meet our needs.
The US aerospace company agreed in 2018 to deliver two 747-8 aircraft by the end of 2024 for $3.9 billion - both prepared to transport whoever would be occupying the White House at that time.
However, due to a subcontractor's bankruptcy and disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic, Boeing has been forced to postpone delivery to 2027 and 2028.
Trump stated he was open to purchasing planes "from another country" but would not consider Airbus, Boeing's European competitor, to manufacture the jets.
Air Force One is a custom-built aircraft equipped with cutting-edge communication systems, a medical center, and a defense mechanism.
The current Air Force One aircraft are facing increasing maintenance expenses and are being equipped with parts that are becoming less modern.
Trump's comments are the latest setback for embattled Boeing, which reported an $11.8 billion loss last year.
The company is still facing the impact of a labor strike that lasted over seven weeks, resulting in the closure of its two main assembly plants.
Boeing's performance was also tarnished by a problematic flight in January 2024 when a 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines made an emergency landing after the plane experienced a mid-air rupture of a window panel.
After that incident, Boeing faced increased scrutiny from US air regulators and reduced its production pace.
The Boeing Company is also facing financial losses due to long-standing defense contracts that incur fixed costs.