Donald Trump was on his way to Davos, Switzerland, to attend the World Economic Forum when Air Force One was forced to turn back shortly after takeoff.

What happened mid-air?

Flight-tracking data showed the aircraft making a U-turn and heading back toward Washington, D.C. Soon after, visuals circulating on social media captured vehicles from the President’s motorcade rushing toward Joint Base Andrews, confirming the return.

Reason for the turnaround

According to a senior White House official, the decision was taken out of an abundance of caution after the crew identified a minor electrical issue on board.

What happens next?

President Trump is expected to switch aircraft and continue his journey to Davos as planned. Officials emphasized that the issue was not an emergency and that standard safety protocols were followed.

Bottom line

• No security threat or emergency


• Minor electrical issue identified


• Aircraft returned as a precaution


• Alternate flight arranged to continue to Davos

Such precautionary turnarounds are rare but not unprecedented for presidential travel, where safety margins are intentionally kept extremely high.