The United States has officially accepted a Boeing 747 from the Qatari royal family as a gift, according to a Pentagon spokesperson. The aircraft will be temporarily repurposed as Air Force One.
By transferring the plane to the Pentagon, President Trump bypasses the need for congressional approval. The Boeing 747-8, valued at approximately $400 million, has sparked concerns among Democrats and some Republicans, who view the acceptance as unethical and unconstitutional.
Qatar has denied allegations of undue influence, while Trump defended the decision, arguing it saves taxpayer money. The current Air Force One aircraft, over 30 years old, will be replaced by this interim solution until new models arrive in 2027.