Again. Read.
### Overview
Yes, Qatar has gifted a luxury Boeing 747-8 jet, valued at approximately $400 million, to the United States government for use as a
temporary Air Force One during Donald Trump's presidency. The donation was formally accepted by the Pentagon in May 2025, following negotiations that began with U.S. outreach to Qatar earlier in the year. The plane, originally part of the Qatari royal family's fleet, is being retrofitted at U.S. expense (estimated at $400 million to $1 billion) for security and operational upgrades. Post-presidency, it is slated to transfer to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation.
This arrangement has sparked significant controversy over ethics, legality, national security, and potential foreign influence, with critics from both parties labeling it as unconstitutional under the Foreign Emoluments Clause (which prohibits presidents from accepting foreign gifts without congressional consent) and a form of corruption. Trump has defended it as a cost-saving "gesture" that benefits the U.S.
### Key Details
- **Timeline and Acceptance**:
- The Trump administration approached Qatar in early 2025 about acquiring a Boeing 747 after delays in new Air Force One deliveries from Boeing (originally ordered in Trump's first term).
- Initial discussions involved leasing or purchasing, but it evolved into a donation.
- Trump toured the plane in February 2025 at Palm Beach International Airport.
- The Pentagon formally accepted the "unconditional" gift on May 21, 2025, via a memorandum of understanding with Qatar's Ministry of Defense.
- Retrofitting began in July 2025 at a secure U.S. facility, including anti-missile systems, secure communications, and espionage sweeps.
- **Value and Condition**:
- New list price: ~$400 million.
- As a 13-year-old used aircraft: Estimated at $100–200 million depreciated value.
- Described as a "flying palace" with luxurious interiors, but requires extensive modifications to meet Air Force One standards (e.g., survivability, classified tech).
- **Post-Term Plans**:
- During Trump's term: Used as Air Force One.
- After: Transferred to his presidential library, allowing personal or foundation use, which critics argue circumvents gift-value limits ($480 for officials).
### Controversies and Reactions
The deal has drawn bipartisan backlash, including calls for investigations and blocking legislation. Here's a summary of key concerns and responses:
| Aspect | Concerns Raised | Responses/Defenses |
|--------|-----------------|---------------------|
| **Legality** | Violates U.S. Constitution (Article I, Section 9: No foreign gifts without Congress's consent). Could be impeachable as a "corrupt act." No congressional approval sought. | White House/DOJ: Legal as a Defense Department transaction, not personal; "bona fide gift" with no quid pro quo. Will be donated to library (private entity). |
| **Ethics** | Appears as bribery or influence-buying; ties to Trump's Qatar business deals (e.g., $5.5B golf resort investment). Qatar's history of funding controversial groups adds risks. | Trump: "Only a fool would not accept this gift... We're giving to everyone else." Saves U.S. taxpayer money for "Make America Great Again." |
| **Security** | Foreign plane may harbor surveillance devices; retrofits could take years, limiting international use without escorts. | Pentagon: Full inspections underway; costs classified but funded via existing budgets (e.g., missile program reallocations). |
| **Political Backlash** | Democrats (e.g., Schumer: "Naked corruption"; Raskin: "Grift") push resolutions/legislation to block. Some Republicans and Trump allies (e.g., Ben Shapiro: "Skeezy"; Laura Loomer: "Stain") criticize. | Qatar: Dismissed concerns; called it a defense-to-defense transfer. Trump: "Great gesture" from a defended ally. |
As of October 1, 2025, the plane is in U.S. custody and under modification, but legal challenges persist in Congress. No final resolution has blocked its use.
