Emergency Image Deployed on Qatar-Donated Air Force One, Briefly Delaying Trump Before Dallas GOP Convention | Today’s news
President Donald Trump’s departure for the Republican convention in Dallas was briefly delayed Wednesday after an emergency chute deployed on the Qatar-donated plane he was using as Air Force One.
An emergency slide inspection briefly delayed the departure of Trump’s Air Force One
The inflatable slide was seen extended from the far side of the plane at Joint Base Andrews shortly before Trump was due to board a flight to Texas. The president arrived aboard Marine One at about 2:02 p.m. ET and remained inside the helicopter for more than 20 minutes while crews assessed the situation.
Trump later downplayed the concerns, telling reporters that the deployment of the chute was linked to a security check.
“They were doing a slide check, you know, in case of an emergency. So I think it takes about 15 minutes,” Trump said before boarding the plane.
The slide was deployed from the right side of the Boeing 747, opposite the side normally used for presidential boarding. While the inspection took place, the older presidential aircraft, identifiable by its light blue paint scheme, was moved into position behind the newer jet as a backup.
Trump finally disembarked from Marine One at about 2:24 p.m., and boarded the plane donated by Qatar after the slide was resolved.
Asked if he knew why the inspection was necessary and if there were safety concerns, Trump said the crews wanted to make sure the plane was operating properly.
“I think they’ve already put it in. They want to make sure everything works perfectly,” he said.
The reporter then asked if he was sure the plane was safe to fly.
“Yes, I am, or I wouldn’t be here,” Trump replied.
The White House later referred questions about the incident to Trump’s remarks. No further explanation was immediately provided as to what caused the chute to slide.
