In a stunning disclosure from his forthcoming memoir, former President Donald Trump has expressed vehement disapproval of the iconic Air Force One's appearance, with CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins revealing the specific design element that drew his strongest criticism.
The Presidential Colour Clash
According to Collins, who discussed the revelations on her CNN programme, Trump was particularly incensed by the aircraft's distinctive blue stripe. The former president reportedly described the traditional livery as looking "cheap and terrible" and considered the overall design "the worst thing" about the prestigious presidential transport.
Trump's Redesign Ambitions
During his presidency, Trump had ambitious plans to completely overhaul the aircraft's appearance, favouring a more patriotic red, white, and blue colour scheme. His proposed redesign would have marked a dramatic departure from the familiar light blue and white appearance that has characterised Air Force One for decades.
The former president's dissatisfaction wasn't merely aesthetic; he reportedly believed the current design lacked the gravitas and power befitting the office of the President of the United States.
Historical Significance vs Modern Vision
The iconic blue stripe that so offended Trump has been part of Air Force One's identity since the Kennedy administration in the 1960s. Designed by Raymond Loewy, the livery was intended to project elegance and stability while maintaining a distinctive American character.
Trump's proposed changes would have represented the most significant visual overhaul of the presidential aircraft in over half a century, though ultimately his redesign plans never came to fruition during his term in office.
Collins' Insider Perspective
Kaitlan Collins, who served as White House correspondent during the Trump administration, provided unique insight into the former president's fixation with the aircraft's appearance. Her reporting suggests that Trump's dissatisfaction with Air Force One's design was a recurring theme throughout his presidency.
The revelations offer a fascinating glimpse into how aesthetic considerations can become significant concerns for world leaders, even when dealing with the most symbolic assets of American power and prestige.
