Trump to Use Qatari Jet as Air Force One: Concerns Raised Over Security and Ethics

Trump Administration to Accept Luxury Jet from Qatar as Air Force One The Trump administration is reportedly set to accept a super-luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet from the royal family of Qatar. This plane will temporarily serve as Air Force One for President Trump's travel until shortly before he leaves office. This information comes from four sources familiar with the planning. The transfer of ownership to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation after his term is also confirmed by two of these sources. While the White House Press Secretary claims any gift received will comply fully with the law, critics and Democrats express strong concerns. Senator Chuck Schumer tweeted, "Nothing says 'America First' like Air Force One, brought to you by Qatar. It's not just bribery, it's premium foreign influence with extra legroom." The security implications of accepting such a gift without thorough inspection are a major point of contention. A Defense Department official, speaking to the New York Times, stated that the Air Force has yet to reach an agreement on a contract to refurbish the Qatari 747 for security modifications. This highlights the legal and logistical hurdles involved in using the plane as Air Force One. President Trump, however, has described the transaction as "a very public and transparent transaction," a characterization sharply contrasted by the concerns raised by his critics.