Overview

• The Pentagon confirmed the acceptance of a $400 million luxury Boeing 747 from Qatar to serve as a temporary Air Force One for President Trump.
• The jet will require extensive retrofitting, potentially costing up to $1 billion, to meet security and functional requirements for presidential use.
• Lawmakers from both parties have raised ethical and constitutional concerns under the Emoluments Clause, citing the lack of congressional approval for the foreign gift.
• The decision follows delays in Boeing's $3.9 billion contract to deliver two new Air Force One jets, now expected no earlier than 2027.
• President Trump has defended the move as cost-saving and legal, while critics warn of potential foreign influence and national security risks.