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President Trump Switches Planes Using Catering Truck Amid Security Threat

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 · 2 sources

President Donald Trump secretly switched planes using a catering truck in July due to a credible Iranian assassination threat. The switch was made after Trump boarded the old Air Force One jumbo jet in view of television cameras.

In July, President Donald Trump hid in a catering truck and reportedly secretly switched planes in a security ruse prompted by a credible Iranian assassination threat. The president's actual location was concealed from journalists and some White House staff, who thought they were traveling with Trump on the older plane. Trump initially boarded the old Air Force One jumbo jet in view of television cameras, and then was secretly shuttled minutes later to a smaller plane via an airport catering truck typically used to load meals and other supplies preflight.

The security ruse was reportedly prompted by a credible Iranian assassination threat. The details of the threat have not been disclosed, but the measure was taken to ensure the president's safety. The incident highlights the security risks faced by the president and the measures taken to protect him.

Go Deeper

What was the reason for President Trump switching planes?

The reason for President Trump switching planes was a credible Iranian assassination threat. The details of the threat have not been disclosed, but the measure was taken to ensure the president's safety.

How did President Trump switch planes?

President Trump switched planes by hiding in a catering truck. He initially boarded the old Air Force One jumbo jet in view of television cameras, and then was secretly shuttled minutes later to a smaller plane via the catering truck.

Who was aware of the president's location during the switch?

Some White House staff and journalists were not aware of the president's location during the switch. They thought they were traveling with Trump on the older plane, but the president's actual location was concealed from them.

What type of truck was used to switch planes?

A catering truck was used to switch planes. The truck is typically used to load meals and other supplies preflight.

When did the incident occur?

The incident occurred in July. The exact date has not been disclosed, but it is reported to have happened during a security ruse prompted by a credible Iranian assassination threat.