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Air Force One Returns to Base After Electrical Issue Delays Trump’s Davos Trip

lite News Desk 2 min read

At a glance

  • Air Force One turned back to Joint Base Andrews on January 20, 2026
  • A minor electrical issue was identified shortly after takeoff
  • President Trump will continue to Davos on a different aircraft

Air Force One was forced to return to its departure point after a technical issue interrupted President Donald Trump’s planned flight to Switzerland for the World Economic Forum.

The aircraft left Joint Base Andrews on January 20, 2026, with President Trump on board, bound for Davos. Crew members detected a minor electrical problem soon after takeoff, which led to the decision to return to the base as a precaution.

During the flight, reporters traveling with the president observed that the lights in the press cabin briefly went out. Flight tracking data showed that the plane reversed course over Long Island, New York, before heading back to Washington, D.C.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the choice to return was made “out of an abundance of caution.” The incident resulted in a delay to the president’s travel schedule.

What the numbers show

  • The incident occurred on January 20, 2026
  • Air Force One reversed course over Long Island before returning
  • President Trump’s arrival in Davos will be delayed

Following the return to Joint Base Andrews, plans were made for President Trump to continue his journey to the World Economic Forum using another aircraft. The delay was confirmed by official sources, and arrangements were adjusted accordingly.

The minor electrical issue was addressed according to standard safety procedures. No injuries or further complications were reported during the incident.

Media outlets reported that the precautionary measures taken by the crew ensured the safety of those on board. The president’s travel plans were modified to accommodate the unforeseen delay.

The World Economic Forum in Davos is scheduled to proceed, with President Trump expected to arrive later than initially planned due to the aircraft change.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.

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