Air Force One Makes Emergency Turnaround After Electrical Issue, Delays Trump’s Davos Trip as U.S.–Europe Tensions Rise Ahead of High-Stakes World Economic Forum Address

Air Force One Returns to Base After Midair Electrical Issue, Trump Rerouted to Davos
Air Force One was forced to turn back shortly after takeoff while carrying President Donald Trump to the World Economic Forum summit in Davos, Switzerland, following the discovery of what the White House described as a “minor electrical issue.”

According to the White House press pool, the aircraft reversed course as a precaution and safely returned to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. A government motorcade was seen speeding to the base shortly after the decision was made, underscoring the urgency of the situation, though officials emphasized there was no immediate danger to the president or those onboard.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt sought to ease concerns, joking that the Qatari jet previously offered to President Trump “sounded much better” in that moment. Despite the unexpected disruption, administration officials confirmed that Trump and his staff would continue to Davos aboard a different aircraft.
The delay is expected to affect the president’s arrival time in Switzerland, though no revised schedule has yet been announced.

Trump was originally expected to land in time for meetings ahead of his scheduled address at the World Economic Forum on Wednesday.
The incident comes at a sensitive moment in global diplomacy. Trump’s appearance in Davos is highly anticipated as relations between the United States and several European leaders remain strained. Tensions have intensified in recent weeks over Washington’s renewed interest in Greenland, a topic expected to surface during high-level discussions at the summit.

While mechanical issues with Air Force One are rare, officials stressed that the aircraft’s strict safety protocols are designed to err on the side of caution. The successful return to Joint Base Andrews and swift arrangements for alternative travel highlighted the administration’s emphasis on security and continuity.
President Trump is still expected to deliver his Davos speech as planned, though his arrival has been delayed. The White House said further updates would be provided as the situation develops.