Goodbye to Air Force One? This is the royal jet Trump will use as his new “presidential palace”

The Trump administration is reportedly set to accept one of the most valuable gifts from a foreign country to the US government in history. Dubbed a ‘palace in the sky,’ Qatar is offering the White House an upgrade to Air Force One, valued at over $400 million.

The BBC reported that Qatar’s royal family denied that the airplane is a gift, and instead describes the transaction as a “temporary transfer.” After President Trump’s term, it would be donated to his presidential library.

President Trump to visit Qatar on his first international trip this week

President Trump is heading to the Middle East this week on his first foreign visit, including a stop in Qatar.

Negotiations between the US Department of Defense and Qatar’s Ministry of Defense remain ongoing, according to the BBC, but any finalized deal could be made public during the president’s visit.

Critics, including some within the Trump base, have called on the White House to reject the “transfer.” Far-right activist Laura Loomer, who is known to have the ear of President Trump, said that accepting the gift would be a “stain” on the administration.

Some Democratic leaders have also questioned the legality of the offer from Qatar, given the rules laid out in the US Constitution.

Article 1, Section 9, Clause 8, often called the Emoluments Clause, prohibits the acceptance of gifts, as well as emoluments or titles, “from any King, Prince, or foreign state.”

No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States: And no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the Consent of the Congress, accept of any present, Emolument, Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any King, Prince, or foreign State.

US Constitution, Article 1, Section 9, Clause 8

Such gifts would be allowed with the consent of Congress, but the White House might have trouble rallying support on Capitol Hill, given the optics at a time when many households are concerned about their economic well-being.

President Trump attempted to quell concerns on Truth Social, explaining that since it is a gift, there would be no cost to the public. Trump ignored the fears that it would lead to any favorable treatment towards Qatar that would be undue because of the lavish present, which is the aspect of the deal that has generated much concern.

The current planes used to transport the US President

In reality, Air Force 1 is not a single plane, but a fleet consisting of two Boeing 747-200B aircraft that have been customized to fit the president’s needs. There is room for the media who travel with the president, as well as offices, meetings, a kitchen, and areas for rest.

Boeing has been asked to deliver more modern planes for Air Force 1. The company has made clear that they are behind schedule on the delivery and will not be available until 2027 or 2028. The delays of the new aircraft have upset President Trump, which could be one of the reasons he is enticed by Qatar’s offer.

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