Preparations are underway to convert a Qatari 747-8 jumbo jet into a potential new Air Force One for President Donald Trump, with plans to undertake necessary retrofitting and inspections. The aircraft, valued at $400 million and offered as an "unconditional" gift, has drawn sharp criticism from across the political spectrum. Critics, including some of Trump’s own supporters, question the legality and ethics surrounding the donation, suggesting it may be characterized as a "bribe."
US Prepares Qatari Jumbo Jet as Potential Air Force One
US Prepares Qatari Jumbo Jet as Potential Air Force One
Donald Trump's acceptance of a $400 million aircraft donated by Qatar has sparked bipartisan criticism, raising legal concerns over gifts from foreign governments.
The White House has maintained that taking the aircraft is within legal bounds and clarified its intentions to donate the jet to Trump’s presidential library following his term. Current regulations state that gifts over $480 require congressional approval, prompting concerns from figures like California Senator Adam Schiff, who highlighted constitutional stipulations against foreign gifts to elected officials.
According to a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. Defense Department and Qatar, the aircraft will be provided “as is,” pending modifications overseen by the Pentagon. These adjustments are crucial to preparing the plane for its unique role in carrying the President, including implementing rigorous security evaluations to eliminate potential surveillance risks.
Dissecting the necessity of a new Air Force One, the current fleet consists of two 747-200 jets that have been in service since 1990, along with a few classified 757s. Trump previously expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing regarding the development of new aircraft from U.S. manufacturers and indicated a willingness to explore alternative options.
While the retrofitting costs remain ambiguous, estimates suggest they could escalate into the hundreds of millions or even a billion dollars, due to installing advanced security measures and capabilities, such as mid-flight refueling and protections against potential nuclear threats. Some officials propose redirecting budget allocations from existing military modernization programs to cover expenses.
As preparations continue, the legality of accepting such a lavish gift remains under scrutiny, with the Press Secretary asserting compliance with legalities while critics maintain skepticism about the underlying motives of the donation.
According to a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. Defense Department and Qatar, the aircraft will be provided “as is,” pending modifications overseen by the Pentagon. These adjustments are crucial to preparing the plane for its unique role in carrying the President, including implementing rigorous security evaluations to eliminate potential surveillance risks.
Dissecting the necessity of a new Air Force One, the current fleet consists of two 747-200 jets that have been in service since 1990, along with a few classified 757s. Trump previously expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing regarding the development of new aircraft from U.S. manufacturers and indicated a willingness to explore alternative options.
While the retrofitting costs remain ambiguous, estimates suggest they could escalate into the hundreds of millions or even a billion dollars, due to installing advanced security measures and capabilities, such as mid-flight refueling and protections against potential nuclear threats. Some officials propose redirecting budget allocations from existing military modernization programs to cover expenses.
As preparations continue, the legality of accepting such a lavish gift remains under scrutiny, with the Press Secretary asserting compliance with legalities while critics maintain skepticism about the underlying motives of the donation.
