Former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in an offer from Qatar to provide a new Boeing 747 for the U.S. government, describing it as a “great gesture” that would be “stupid” to decline. According to Trump, the new plane would temporarily replace the existing Air Force One jets, which he described as old and costly to maintain.
Trump clarified that the plane offered by Qatar would not be a gift to him but rather to the Department of Defense, recognizing the United States’ role in regional security. However, the offer has raised concerns among some lawmakers who argue that accepting gifts from foreign governments could violate the Constitution and create conflicts of interest.
Several Democratic senators voiced concerns about potential national security risks and foreign influence that accepting the plane could entail. They emphasized that Air Force One is more than just an aircraft — it is a symbol of the presidency and of the United States.
Trump maintained that the plane would be decommissioned and displayed at his presidential library once he leaves office and that he would not use it afterward. Meanwhile, the U.S. Air Force has confirmed that the new Air Force One aircraft ordered from Boeing is expected to be delivered in 2027.
