Trump’s new plane is “a flying palace” from Qatar royal family

Upon arriving at Miami International Airport in Miami, Florida on February 19, 2025, US President Donald Trump disembarked from Air Force One. Frustrated with the slow progress in upgrading the Air Force One fleet, President Trump desires a new plane this year, which the royal family in Qatar is ready to provide. Reports indicate that his administration is on the verge of accepting a luxurious Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet, known as “a flying palace,” previously utilized by the Qatar government. The aircraft, valued at around $400 million, will require additional communication and defensive enhancements for presidential travel. The U.S. government has enlisted defense contractor L3Harris to renovate the plane.

Although the Constitution prohibits U.S. government officials from accepting gifts from foreign entities, legal advisors in the Trump administration assert that there are no legal concerns with the plane. This could potentially be the most substantial foreign gift ever given to the U.S. government. Attorney General Pam Bondi clarified that the plane will be allocated to the U.S. Air Force, and upon leaving office, it will be donated to Trump’s presidential library. Trump, who currently possesses an older 757 known as “Trump Force One,” will be able to utilize the new plane as a private citizen. The delivery of two new planes for the Air Force One fleet, contracted to Boeing, has faced significant delays and cost overruns, with an anticipated completion date of 2027.

Trump is scheduled to receive the 13-year-old jet during his upcoming visit to Qatar, where he and his family have business interests. Furthermore, he has made various opulent additions to his second term, including gold-framed portraits in the Oval Office, gold ornaments on the fireplace mantel, and a gold FIFA World Cup trophy. Plans are in place for a $100 million ballroom addition to the White House, alterations to the Rose Garden, and the installation of a grand chandelier in the Oval Office. Additionally, Trump’s proposed military parade in Washington, D.C., set to coincide with the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and his 79th birthday, could cost up to $45 million, according to NBC News. Trump referred to this expense as insignificant compared to the symbolic value of the event.