U.S. President Donald Trump plans to accept a luxurious Boeing 747-8 aircraft from the Qatari royal family to serve temporarily as Air Force One, according to a Reuters report . The aircraft, valued at approximately $400 million, would eventually be donated to Trump’s presidential library after his term ends.

Trump confirmed the proposal on his social media platform, Truth Social, describing it as a cost-saving and transparent move. However, the plan has sparked criticism from Democrats and ethics groups, who argue that accepting such a gift from a foreign government may be unethical or unconstitutional without congressional approval. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics have raised concerns about potential violations of constitutional restrictions on U.S. officials receiving gifts from foreign governments.

The Qatari government stated that no final decision has been made regarding the aircraft transfer. Legal assessments by the White House counsel’s office and the Department of Justice reportedly support the legality of accepting the gift. Trump is set to visit Qatar this week, but the aircraft will not be formally presented during the trip.

This development comes amid delays in Boeing’s delivery of two new 747-8 aircraft intended to serve as updated Air Force One planes. Originally expected in 2024, the delivery has been postponed, with Boeing proposing a new delivery date of 2027 . In response to these delays, the U.S. government has selected defense contractor L3Harris Technologies to retrofit a former Qatari Boeing 747 for interim use as Air Force One .

Trump’s consideration of the Qatari aircraft underscores his frustration with Boeing’s delays and his willingness to explore alternative solutions to replace the aging presidential fleet.

Source: Reuters