New York Times Reporters Subpoenaed Over Air Force One Report

Several New York Times journalists have been subpoenaed to testify under oath after reporting on alleged security concerns surrounding President Donald Trump's new Air Force One aircraft.

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According to the newspaper, federal agents delivered subpoenas to some reporters at their homes, ordering them to appear before a federal grand jury investigating a possible federal crime.

Journalists Ordered to Testify

The Justice Department confirmed it is investigating alleged illegal leaks of classified information but said the journalists themselves are not the focus of the inquiry.

"Reporters are not the targets, those leaking classified information are," the department told the BBC.

Reports Raised Security Questions

The New York Times recently published reports citing unnamed sources who claimed the Boeing 747-8, donated by Qatar, lacked key security capabilities required for presidential travel.

One report said the Secret Service advised Trump to switch to an older Air Force One aircraft for his return journey after attending a Nato summit in Turkey. Another said officials were concerned the newer plane did not yet include advanced defensive systems, including anti-missile protection.

Other media outlets, including CBS News, also reported similar concerns. A former US government official told CBS there had not been enough time or funding to equip the aircraft with all the security features needed for Air Force One service.

Press Freedom Concerns

The subpoenas reportedly require the journalists to appear before a grand jury in Manhattan to provide testimony regarding an alleged violation of federal criminal law.

David McCraw, the New York Times' senior newsroom lawyer, condemned the move, describing it as a "brazen act" aimed at intimidating journalists and discouraging reporting on matters of public interest.

The newspaper noted that while leaking classified information can be a criminal offence, the US Constitution protects the press's right to publish information in the public interest.

The Justice Department said it recognises the importance of a free press but also has a responsibility to investigate the unauthorised disclosure of classified information.

Trump Dismisses Concerns

The reports emerged during a period of heightened tensions with Iran, as the United States carried out military strikes while diplomatic efforts over a ceasefire continued.

Asked about the reported security concerns, Trump dismissed them, saying: "I have a threat all the time. I'm No. 1 on their list."

Last month, Trump unveiled the Boeing 747-8 that Qatar donated to the United States as an "unconditional" gift. The aircraft, valued at about $400 million (£300 million), was modified for presidential transport.

The US Air Force said the jet received upgrades covering security, communications, logistics support and advanced technology, adding that any identified risks associated with using a previously owned aircraft had been addressed.

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12 July 2026