the argument over "cutting edge" is odd- you can only fit what gear is available and keep upgrading it - of course you can argue that a newer design would be more efficient and cost less over the life of service
My comment about "quaint" was nothing to do with efficient but with appearances - like it or not AF1 is part of the Presidential "image" and in 30-50 years time those 747's are going to look very old
Rather as if the presidential limo was still a 1950's Cadillac Eldorado - beautiful - yes, stil running yes - but up to date image noooooooooooooooo