Trump unveils refurbished Qatari-donated jet for Air Force One fleet

WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump on Friday introduced a newly modified Boeing 747-8 aircraft that was donated by Qatar to the United States and will temporarily serve as part of the Air Force One fleet. The aircraft, estimated to be worth around $400 million, has undergone extensive upgrades by the US military to meet presidential transport requirements. Speaking at Joint Base Andrews, Trump described the jet as a “flying White House,” praising its luxury features and craftsmanship. According to the US Air Force, the aircraft has completed major modifications, including enhancements to security systems, communications capabilities, logistics support and other advanced technologies required for presidential missions. Officials said all potential security concerns associated with the previously owned aircraft had been addressed. The jet’s interior has largely been preserved, while its exterior has been repainted in red, white, blue and gold colours. Before entering regular service, the aircraft will undergo a series of commissioning flights to evaluate its upgraded systems and operational readiness. The Boeing 747-8 was donated to the US Department of Defense by Qatar’s ruling family in 2025. The gift generated political debate in Washington, with critics questioning whether accepting such a high-value aircraft was appropriate and consistent with federal regulations. The White House has maintained that the transfer complied with legal requirements and has stated that the aircraft will eventually be placed in Trump’s presidential library after he leaves office. US President Donald Trump has already left his mark on the new Air Force One jet, signing his name on the Boeing 747 donated by Qatar. Trump has described the jet as a luxurious ‘flying White House’. pic.twitter.com/7F4o17BdbO — Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) June 20, 2026 Trump thanked Qatar’s leadership for the donation, highlighting the aircraft’s design, materials and engineering qua