WASHINGTON: A high-security operation unfolded behind the scenes during U.S. President Donald Trump’s departure from Turkey last month, as officials reportedly changed his travel plan and moved him to a different military aircraft following a potential threat linked to Iran.
The unusual arrangement remained undisclosed during the journey and highlighted the extensive security measures surrounding presidential travel.
Trump had travelled to Ankara for the NATO summit aboard a newly renovated Qatar-donated Boeing 747, but his return journey took a different route. Instead of leaving Turkey on the aircraft that had carried him there, Trump was reportedly moved to a smaller Air Force C-32A aircraft as part of a security precaution.
According to reports, Trump first boarded an older Air Force One aircraft in front of cameras, creating the impression that he would continue his journey on that plane. He was later transferred through a discreet airport operation to the smaller military aircraft, which carried him to the United Kingdom.
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The reported security operation was launched after officials identified a credible threat against the president. A similar deception strategy was used in 2000, when former U.S. President Bill Clinton travelled to Pakistan on an unmarked aircraft while another plane was used as a decoy.
Before leaving Ankara, Trump had publicly stated that he would use an older “baby blue” Air Force One aircraft for his flight to RAF Mildenhall in Britain, while the newer Qatar-donated jet would stop separately so U.S. service members could tour the aircraft.
Journalists travelling with the older Air Force One were reportedly unaware of the aircraft switch and were advised to keep window shades closed during parts of the flight. Some White House staff members also believed Trump was travelling on the same aircraft.
When questioned about the precaution, Trump told reporters that the flight was “probably” considered dangerous and added, “But if I go, you go. Right?”
The military aircraft carrying Trump reportedly arrived in Britain before the older Air Force One carrying journalists and staff. Details about how Trump later rejoined the official aircraft remained unclear.
After arriving in the United Kingdom, Trump greeted U.S. service members before moving to the Qatar-donated aircraft for the next stage of his journey.
The White House defended the security arrangements, saying the newly upgraded aircraft had been equipped with advanced security systems to protect the president and his staff.
White House Communications Director Steve Cheung said the administration uses every available measure to address threats against the president, adding that security protocols were in place to ensure his safety.
The incident has renewed attention on presidential travel security and the capabilities of the newly upgraded Qatar-donated Boeing 747, which is being used as a temporary aircraft while the next-generation Air Force One planes remain delayed
