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The Qatari royal family has proposed gifting a luxury Boeing 747-8, valued at around $400 million, to the U.S. government to serve temporarily as Air Force One. Former President Donald Trump confirmed the potential gift on Truth Social, describing it as a transparent, cost-saving move amid delays in the delivery of new Air Force One jets.
The aircraft, reportedly toured by Trump in February, would ultimately be transferred to his presidential library after his presidency. However, the plan has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats and ethics groups. Critics argue the gift raises serious constitutional and ethical concerns, including potential violations of the Constitution’s Emoluments Clause, which prohibits U.S. officials from accepting gifts from foreign governments without congressional approval.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called it "premium foreign influence with extra legroom," while watchdog group CREW questioned the propriety of accepting such a large gift from a country where Trump has past business ties.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that any foreign gift would be accepted in accordance with the law, and ABC News reported that legal reviews by the White House counsel and Justice Department found the plan to be legally permissible.
Qatar’s government has not yet finalized the gift. Trump is expected to visit Qatar this week, but no official exchange of the aircraft will occur during the visit.
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