President Donald Trump is reportedly poised to accept a Boeing 747-8 aircraft as a gift from the Qatari royal family, with plans to retrofit it for use as Air Force One. The luxury jet, valued at approximately $400 million, would be among the most significant gifts ever received by the U.S. government. Upon his departure from office, Trump intends to donate the aircraft to his presidential library.

This development comes amid frustrations over delays in the delivery of new Air Force One planes. Boeing, under a contract negotiated during Trump’s first term, has proposed a completion date of 2027 for the two customized 747-8 jets, a significant delay from the original 2024 timeline. Trump toured the Qatari-owned 747-8 in February to assess its suitability for the presidential fleet. The White House did not immediately comment on the latest report

The potential acceptance of the aircraft has raised ethical and legal concerns among Democrats and good government advocates, citing possible foreign influence and conflicts of interest. A Qatari spokesperson stated that discussions are ongoing and no final decision has been made regarding the transfer of the aircraft.

Source: Reuters