politics
Trump's secret plane switch took place within a day of credible Iranian missile threat
Updated on: August 12, 2026 / 6:37 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- President Trump secretly switched planes from Air Force One to a C-32A jet before departing Ankara, Turkey.
- The switch occurred within a day of U.S. and Turkish intelligence detecting a credible Iranian plot to fire a surface-to-air missile at Air Force One.
- The decision was made by the National Security Council, White House Military Office, and Secret Service due to significant ongoing threats from Iran.
- A catering truck was used to move President Trump and some aides to the C-32A jet, while the older Air Force One departed separately with other officials and press.
- Trump stated that the military and Secret Service wanted him to fly on a different flight due to threats, and he believed his plane was at greater risk.