Qatari-Donated Presidential Jet Set for Summer Delivery Amid 250th Birthday Festivities
The United States Air Force has confirmed that the Qatari-donated aircraft undergoing conversion to become a new Air Force One is progressing toward delivery to President Donald Trump this summer. While an exact date remains undetermined, officials indicate the plane could potentially participate in July's celebrations marking the nation's 250th birthday, featuring a red, white, and dark-blue paint scheme preferred by the president.
Air Force Commitment and Project Timeline
In a statement to The Wall Street Journal, the Air Force emphasized its dedication to expediting the VC-25 bridge aircraft's delivery, targeting completion no later than summer 2026. This announcement follows previous uncertainty, as Trump had earlier suggested readiness by February. The aircraft's full operational status by July remains unclear, though it is expected to include secure communications and the distinctive new livery.
Background on Current Fleet and Recent Incident
The existing primary Air Force One aircraft, two 747s in service since the George H.W. Bush administration, are advanced planes capable of in-flight refueling, missile defense, and specialized communications that keep the president connected as if in the White House. However, a recent incident highlighted aging concerns: on Tuesday, the plane transporting Trump, staff, and reporters to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, turned back over the Atlantic due to an electrical issue, necessitating a switch to another aircraft.
Trump's Push for Modernization and Qatari Intervention
Since his first term, President Trump has voiced dissatisfaction with the older, smaller planes used for Air Force One, with White House advisers noting discomforts like non-reclining seats and cramped bathrooms. In 2018, a $3.9 billion deal with Boeing for two new 747s faced delays, pushing delivery to mid-2028. In response, Qatar offered a jumbo jet as an interim solution, which Trump commissioned defense contractor L3Harris to overhaul in Waco, Texas, though the Air Force has not officially acknowledged this work.
Ethical and Security Concerns
The Qatari donation has sparked debate over ethical and security implications. Critics, including some Republican lawmakers and allies, argue it might violate the Foreign Emoluments Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which restricts gifts from foreign states without congressional approval. Concerns also extend to security risks and public perception, with commentators labeling the acceptance as problematic. Trump, however, defended the gift as a "great gesture" and stated it would be "stupid" to decline it.
Financial and Operational Details
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink testified in June that renovating the Qatari jet would likely cost under $400 million, funded from leftover Pentagon nuclear missile replacement program funds. Meanwhile, Air Force pilots have begun training on a 747-8 model from Atlas Air, and the service plans to purchase two additional such aircraft for training and sustainment. The future of the Qatari jet post-Trump's presidency is uncertain, with possibilities including use as a spare or training plane, or as an exhibit at Trump's planned presidential library in Miami, akin to the retired Air Force One at the Ronald Reagan library.
White House Response and Ongoing Developments
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt humorously remarked after the recent mechanical issue that the Qatari jet is sounding "much better," emphasizing its value to the Air Force crew. Trump continues to urge the Air Force for updates, reflecting his persistent complaints about the current fleet. As the project advances, details remain classified, with an Air Force spokesperson declining further comment, leaving many aspects of this high-profile presidential aircraft upgrade shrouded in secrecy.
