Trump Administration Considers Qatari 747-8 for Air Force One

The Trump administration is currently in negotiations with the Qatari government to accept a luxurious Boeing 747-8 aircraft as a gift. This aircraft, owned by the Qatari royal family, is slated to be refurbished by a U.S. defense contractor and used as Air Force One during Trump's presidency. Notably, the U.S. government will not be required to pay for this aircraft.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the aircraft may eventually be transferred to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation for use after Trump's term ends. This potential arrangement has raised legal and ethical concerns. The discussions come as Trump is scheduled to visit the Middle East, including Qatar, for the first time during his second term.

Qatar's media representative, Ali Al-Ansari, clarified that reports suggesting Qatar would gift a plane to the U.S. government during Trump's visit are inaccurate. He stated that the Qatari Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense are considering the possibility of transferring a plane temporarily to serve as Air Force One, but this matter is still under review by their respective legal departments and no decision has been made.

The Trump administration has faced criticism for the delays and cost overruns in the modernization of the current Air Force One aircraft, which were contracted to Boeing. The project, which began during Trump's first term, has seen multiple delays and cost overruns, with completion not expected until at least 2027. The White House has emphasized transparency in the process, with Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt stating that any gifts from foreign governments are in full compliance with all applicable laws. The administration has also indicated that the aircraft will be used by Trump in his official capacity as president.

The decision to accept the Qatari aircraft comes as Trump has expressed frustration with the delays in the Boeing project and has been exploring other options. The Qatari aircraft, which Trump inspected in February, is seen as a potential solution to the delays and cost overruns in the Boeing project. The aircraft is expected to be refurbished by a U.S. defense contractor and used as Air Force One during Trump's presidency, with no payment required from the U.S. government. The aircraft is expected to be transferred to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation after his second term ends.