White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the incident, describing it as a routine safety decision. “The issue was identified early, and the aircraft returned without incident,” she said. Trump is expected to arrive in Davos later on Wednesday and proceed with his scheduled engagements.
The president is travelling with what officials described as the largest US delegation ever sent to Davos, including five cabinet ministers and senior advisers. For the first time, the United States has also set up a dedicated “USA House” at the forum, underscoring Washington’s intent to play a prominent role in discussions at the annual gathering of global leaders.
Trump is currently flying on a Boeing 747-200B aircraft used as Air Force One. The US Air Force operates two such planes, both nearly four decades old. Plans to replace them with newer aircraft have faced repeated delays. Separately, a Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet gifted by the Qatari royal family is undergoing extensive modifications to meet presidential security standards, a move that has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers and ethics experts.
At Davos, Trump is expected to deliver a high-profile address focusing on trade, tariffs and security issues, including the future of Greenland. His remarks are being closely watched amid escalating global trade tensions and ongoing disputes over tariffs imposed by the US on several European countries. The administration has indicated that existing levies could be increased if negotiations fail to progress.
Trump is also scheduled to host a closed-door event with global business leaders on the sidelines of the forum, with several prominent Indian executives invited. India has sent a large delegation to WEF 2026, reflecting its growing role in global investment and supply-chain discussions.
The World Economic Forum, being held from January 19 to 23 under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue,” is hosting more than 3,000 participants from over 130 countries, including at least 64 heads of state or government. With geopolitical risks, trade conflicts and technological disruption dominating the agenda, Trump’s appearance is expected to have a significant impact on markets and diplomatic conversations in Davos.
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