U.S. President Donald Trump resumed his journey to the World Economic Forum in Davos early Wednesday, an AFP journalist confirmed, after a minor technical issue forced the presidential aircraft to return to base shortly after takeoff.
According to reports, a minor electrical problem was detected on board Air Force One, prompting the crew to make a precautionary return. The aircraft landed safely at Joint Base Andrews near Washington on Tuesday evening, where arrangements were made to switch planes.
President Trump and his entourage departed again shortly after 05:00 GMT, approximately two and a half hours after the initial takeoff, using a different aircraft from the same base.
Trump is traveling to join global leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where economic and geopolitical challenges are expected to dominate discussions.
Rare but Not Unprecedented Incidents
Security or technical incidents involving U.S. presidential aircraft are rare, though not without precedent.
- In 2011, Air Force One aborted a landing due to severe weather conditions while carrying President Barack Obama to an event in Connecticut.
- In 2012, Air Force Two, transporting then–Vice President Joe Biden, struck a flock of birds in California before landing safely.
No injuries were reported, and officials emphasized that all safety protocols were followed, ensuring the president’s uninterrupted participation in the Davos forum.
