The United States has formally accepted a Boeing 747 aircraft gifted by Qatar to be added to the Air Force One fleet — a move that has ignited fierce criticism, even from some of President Donald Trump's staunchest allies.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed the handover on Wednesday, stating the donation followed all federal rules and procedures.
The aircraft, valued at around $400 million, was previously owned by the Qatari royal family and will undergo extensive modifications before it can serve as Air Force One — the official aircraft for the U.S. president.
Despite the White House’s assurance of transparency and legality, the gift has triggered ethical and constitutional concerns.
Critics point to the U.S. Constitution’s Emoluments Clause, which bars federal officials from accepting gifts from foreign states without congressional consent. No such approval has been granted in this case.
President Trump defended the decision, calling it a “smart move” and stressing that the aircraft is being transferred to the Department of Defense, not to him personally.
He added that the plane would eventually be housed at his presidential library and that he has no plans to use it post-presidency.
Modifications to the jet — including advanced communication systems, missile defense capabilities, nuclear-blast resilience, and mid-air refueling — could cost up to $1 billion, according to defense analysts.
Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, emphasized that the deal is strictly between the two governments’ defense ministries and not based on personal ties.
Still, some U.S. lawmakers, including Republican Senators Rand Paul and Ted Cruz, voiced strong objections. Paul questioned the ethical optics of the gift, while Cruz raised concerns about national security and potential surveillance risks.
Despite the controversy, the Trump administration remains firm in its decision to accept the aircraft.
Source: BBC
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