The Lead Off

• President Donald Trump is reported to have taken his first flight aboard a refurbished Boeing 747-8i serving as Air Force One
• The flight traveled to Medora, North Dakota, for a ceremonial event tied to the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opening
• The aircraft’s refurbishment and defense contractor involvement, including L-3Harris Technologies, is drawing attention

WASHINGTON, DC (WOWO) President Donald Trump is reported to have taken his first flight aboard a newly refurbished Boeing 747-8i serving as Air Force One, traveling to Medora, North Dakota, for a ceremonial event connected to the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and a conservation-focused commemoration ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.

The aircraft is described as a $400 million Boeing 747-8i that was originally associated with Qatar and later retrofitted for presidential use, according to reporting.

Aircraft refurbishment and contractor involvement

The aircraft has drawn attention not only for its use as a presidential transport but also for the companies involved in its upgrade.

According to reporting, the modifications were carried out with involvement from defense contractor L-3Harris Technologies, which specializes in avionics, mission systems, and secure communications systems used in government and military aircraft.

L-3Harris Technologies also maintains operations connected to Indiana’s defense and aerospace sector, including activity tied to the Fort Wayne region’s aviation electronics and systems integration industry supporting federal and military aviation programs.

Flight described as milestone event

The flight was presented as a milestone moment for the updated aircraft. Trump described the jet as showcasing upgraded range, security systems, and modernization compared to older presidential aircraft, according to officials.

The aircraft is expected to continue in temporary presidential service before eventually being transferred for preservation and public display at a presidential library after its operational use ends.

Conservation-themed events in North Dakota

The trip also included remarks and events tied to Theodore Roosevelt’s conservation legacy. The commemoration highlighted public lands, national parks, and environmental stewardship as part of broader messaging ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.

The Takeaway

• A refurbished Boeing 747-8i serving as Air Force One reportedly completed its first presidential-use flight to North Dakota
• The aircraft upgrade involved defense contractor L-3Harris Technologies, which has ties to Indiana’s aerospace and defense sector
• The visit combined ceremonial events at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library with conservation-themed messaging tied to upcoming national milestones