‘End of your job’: Trump jokes as pilots get ‘bigger hand’ than him during Air Force One unveiling

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MARYLAND: President Donald Trump officially unveiled a refurbished Air Force One aircraft at Joint Base Andrews on Friday, June 19, describing it as a symbol of American strength and a centerpiece of upcoming celebrations marking the United States' 250th anniversary.

During the event, Trump joked that two Air Force officers had received a louder ovation than he did before praising them as "great pilots." He also highlighted the aircraft's features and outlined plans for it to lead a major military flyover during next year's commemorative events.

Trump jokes after Air Force officers receive louder applause

The unveiling ceremony included remarks from Trump alongside members of the US Air Force who will operate the aircraft.

As Trump introduced the aircraft and recognized the Air Force personnel who would operate it, he joked about the crowd's reaction after two officers received a louder round of applause than he did.

Trump quickly clarified that the remark was made in jest and praised the officers and their service. "Nah, these are great pilots. These are great, very talented people," he said.

The exchange drew laughter from the audience as the president continued discussing the aircraft and the personnel responsible for operating it. The event marked the public introduction of the refurbished Boeing 747, which Trump toured before addressing service members, and guests gathered at the Maryland base.

Trump calls aircraft a ‘flying White House’

Trump used the event to highlight the aircraft's features and discuss how it will be used during national celebrations planned for next year's semiquincentennial observances.

Describing the jet as "a flying White House," Trump praised its design, construction, and capabilities. "The workmanship of this plane is, when you see it, you won't believe it," he said. "Actually, the quality of the woods, the quality of the materials, the quality of the engines, these engines are the finest in the world. Nothing like it."

Trump also said the aircraft would lead a major military flyover in Washington as part of events commemorating the nation's 250th anniversary. "The likes of which we've never seen before," he said of the planned aerial display.

The president repeatedly described the aircraft as among the most advanced in the world and said it reflected the image he believes the United States should project internationally. "Nobody tops this one, and that's the way we have to have it for our country. Nobody even comes close," Trump said.

The refurbished jet is expected to replace the aging presidential aircraft that has been in service since 1990. Trump indicated that his recent trip back from the Group of Seven summit in France could be among his final flights aboard the current Air Force One fleet as preparations continue for the transition to the new aircraft.