Donald Trump takes aim at Boeing for expensive Air Force One contract
President-elect Donald Trump has called for Boeing’s contract to build Air Force One to be cancelled because it’s too costly.
The Republican tweeted today that the contract costs were “out of control” at “more than $4bn”.
Boeing is building a brand new 747 Air Force One for future presidents, but costs are out of control, more than $4 billion. Cancel order!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 6, 2016
He then reiterated the comments at Trump Tower, speaking to reporters.
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“The plane is totally out of control. It’s going to be over $4bn for Air Force One programme, and I think it’s ridiculous," he said. "I think Boeing is doing a little bit of a number. We want Boeing to make a lot of money, but not that much money.”
In response, Boeing said in a statement: "We are currently under contract for $170m to help determine the capabilities of these complex military aircraft that serves the unique requirements of the President of the United States. We look forward to working with the US Air Force on subsequent phases of the programme allowing us to deliver the best planes for the American taxpayer."
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Boeing was selected as the manufacturer in January 2015, as Boeing’s 747-8 was the only plane made in the US that could meet the requirements for the presidential aircraft. Air Force secretary Deborah Lee James said it was the only fit that was also “consistent with the national public interest”.