The Pentagon has accepted a luxury Boeing 747 megajet from Qatar for President Donald Trump's use. The decision comes after the Trump administration initially approached Qatar about acquiring a plane that could serve as a temporary Air Force One. This move follows delays in the delivery of new presidential planes by Boeing, which are now expected in 2027.

Contrary to President Trump's claims that the jet was a "gift" from Qatar, sources revealed that the Pentagon initiated discussions to purchase or lease the plane. Qatar's Ministry of Defense and the US Department of Defense are still finalizing the legal aspects of the transaction. The plane, valued at approximately $400 million, will undergo extensive retrofitting to meet the security and communication standards required for Air Force One.

The potential deal has sparked controversy, with some Democrats and Republicans raising ethical concerns. Qatar has faced backlash from US lawmakers, who have threatened to delay weapons sales to the Gulf nation. Despite these challenges, both Washington and Doha have emphasized that the transfer will adhere to all legal and ethical obligations.

President Trump toured the Qatari plane in February and expressed admiration for its luxury. He stated that the jet would be a temporary replacement for Air Force One and later be part of his presidential library. However, retrofitting the plane is expected to be a complex and costly process, potentially taking up to two years.

Ross Kaminsky

Chairman of the Board Ayn Rand Institute