The Trump administration is contemplating the acceptance of a lavish Boeing 747-8 jet as a gift from the Qatari royal family, according to sources referenced by ABC News. This aircraft, with an estimated value of $400 million, would undergo modifications by the United States Air Force to serve as the next Air Force One.
This plane, often dubbed the "flying palace" due to its extravagant interior design, is intended for use throughout President Trump's current term. At the conclusion of his presidency, it would become part of the Trump Presidential Library Foundation. An official announcement regarding this gift is anticipated next week, coinciding with Trump's visit to Qatar—his first international trip since commencing his second term in office.
The potential acceptance of this gift has sparked ethical and legal concerns, particularly as it aligns with a recent agreement by the Trump Organization to develop a golf resort in the Gulf nation. However, a legal memorandum prepared by the White House counsel and Attorney General Pam Bondi has determined that receiving the plane is "legally permissible" since the gift is being made to the state, not to an individual.
Initially, the aircraft will be transferred to the Air Force, which will then hire L3Harris to equip it with essential security measures. Subsequently, it will be handed over to the Trump Foundation before January 1, 2029. The Department of Defense will cover all related expenses for this operation.
While the White House and the Justice Department assert that the gift does not breach the Constitution's emoluments clause, critics have labeled the act as institutional corruption. Activist Ed Krassenstein took to social media to denounce it as “bribery in plain sight.” This development also highlights President Trump's dissatisfaction with the delays surrounding the new Air Force One, as the contract with Boeing has faced repeated setbacks since 2018.
Questions Surrounding the Boeing Gift to Trump
Why is Trump considering the Boeing 747-8 gift from Qatar?
President Trump is considering the gift as a replacement for Air Force One due to its luxurious accommodations and the ongoing delays with Boeing's current contract for a new aircraft.
What are the legal implications of accepting the gift?
A legal memorandum has concluded that accepting the aircraft is permissible because the gift is to the state, not to President Trump personally, thus not violating the emoluments clause.
How will the plane be used by the Trump Foundation?
Once the aircraft is no longer in service as Air Force One, it will be transferred to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation for future use.