Trump’s Air Force One turns back to Washington after ‘minor electrical issue’

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Minor electrical issue forces Air Force One to return shortly after takeoff.
White House says President Trump will continue to Davos on another aircraft.

A minor electrical malfunction aboard US President Donald Trump’s aircraft forced Air Force One to return to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland shortly after takeoff late Tuesday, the White House said.

The plane had departed for Switzerland, where Trump is scheduled to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos.

What happened

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the decision to turn back was made “out of an abundance of caution” after the flight crew detected a technical issue soon after departure.

The New York Times, citing a White House spokesperson, reported that the problem involved a malfunction in some cabin lighting systems. Officials stressed that the issue posed no danger to the president or those on board.

“The situation did not present a safety risk,” the spokesperson said.

Travel plans unchanged

Leavitt confirmed that Trump will continue his trip to Davos aboard a different aircraft to participate in the forum as planned.

There was no immediate indication of delays to his schedule in Switzerland.

About Air Force One

Air Force One is one of the most recognizable symbols of the US presidency. The designation refers to two specially configured, long-range aircraft permanently equipped to transport the president securely within the United States and abroad.

The aircraft include a fully equipped medical suite, advanced communications systems, and living quarters featuring a bedroom, bathroom, office, and exercise space. Air Force One can carry about 76 passengers and is operated by a crew of 26 responsible for all onboard operations and presidential needs.