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The U.S. government has accepted a Boeing 747 jet as a gift from Qatar, with the Air Force now tasked to find a quick way to upgrade it for use as a new Air Force One, according to reports from various outlets on Wednesday.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the $400 million acquisition and has directed the Air Force to expedite the modifications needed for it to serve as the official aircraft for President Donald Trump, as first reported by the New York Times.
Legal experts have raised questions regarding laws governing gifts from foreign governments, which are intended to prevent corruption and undue influence. Additionally, there has been pushback from Democratic lawmakers aiming to halt the transfer.
Qatar has responded to these concerns by downplaying the significance of the aircraft deal. Trump himself has dismissed any ethical implications, asserting that it would be “foolish” not to accept the jet.
Other media, including Bloomberg, CBS News, and CNBC, confirmed the agreement, citing a spokesperson from the Pentagon. Representatives from the Department of Defense and the Qatari government were unavailable for immediate comment.
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