Pentagon Formally Accepts Qatar’s Luxury Jet Gift Intended for Air Force One
The Department of Defense confirmed on Wednesday that it has accepted a luxury Boeing 747 from Qatar. Former President Donald Trump had suggested this plane would be converted into the new Air Force One.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that the Secretary of Defense accepted the aircraft from Qatar in compliance with all federal regulations. He added that the Department of Defense will ensure appropriate security measures and mission-related functionalities are in place for the plane, which will transport the President of the United States.
The aircraft is valued at approximately $400 million, potentially making it one of the most valuable gifts ever given to the U.S. government. Extensive modifications are required before it can be used for presidential travel.
The acceptance of the gift has sparked ethical concerns among some Democrats and Republicans, who fear that the Qatari government may be attempting to curry favor with the Trump Administration.
Furthermore, national security experts have cautioned that using a pre-owned aircraft from a foreign government as Air Force One could present security risks. The retrofitting and installation of advanced security and communication systems could take years and cost over $1 billion. Typically, Congress reviews and approves funding for new Department of Defense programs.
Trump has consistently defended the gift, characterizing it as a “gesture” or “contribution” from the Qatari royal family, who hosted him during a visit to the Middle East. He argued that accepting the plane would save U.S. taxpayers money, as the government would not be purchasing the airliner. Trump had been seeking a replacement for the current Air Force One fleet after learning that Boeing could not deliver new jets for at least two years.
“I would never turn down that kind of offer,” Trump stated on May 12. “It would be foolish to refuse a free, very expensive airplane. I considered it a great gesture.”
Trump has also stated that the airliner will be donated to his presidential library after his time in office.
Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, refuted the idea that Qatar was trying to influence Trump.
“I don’t understand why people believe this is a bribe or that Qatar is trying to buy influence with this Administration,” he stated. “I see no valid reason for that.”
He added, “We are a country that seeks strong partnerships and friendships. Any assistance we provide to any country is out of respect for this partnership and is mutually beneficial for both Qatar and the United States.”
The Air Force confirmed it would modify the airliner but provided no further details regarding the plane or the timeline for completion. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink stated during Senate testimony on Tuesday that “any civilian aircraft will require significant modifications” for this purpose.
“We will ensure that we take all necessary steps to guarantee the aircraft’s security,” Meink added. “I will be very clear and discuss any potential threats we cannot address with the [Defense] Secretary and, if necessary, the President.”
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