Plans to accept a Qatari jumbo jet as a temporary substitute for the presidential Air Force One were defended by US President Donald Trump. Despite possible moral and legal objections, Trump told reporters Monday that turning down the offer would make him a “stupid person.” Officials from Qatar have made it clear that they are just negotiating the short-term transfer of a high-end 747 aircraft, not the transfer of permanent ownership.
Ali Al-Ansari denied a formal agreement and emphasised that legal reviews by both defence departments remain ongoing without final decisions today. The luxury plane’s approximately four hundred million dollars value raises questions about foreign gifts to sitting presidents under ethical scrutiny.
Senator Adam Schiff warned that the Constitution prohibits any present from a foreign leader without explicit congressional approval in public debate. Trump insisted the transfer would replace the ageing 747 presidential planes while Boeing completed its delayed new aircraft production contract deliveries.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt asserted full compliance with applicable laws and pledged complete transparency throughout the evaluation process. Trump’s post described the Qatar jumbo jet gift as a free-of-charge contribution to the Defence Department’s fleet expansion.
Qatar’s Boeing 747-8 requires extensive retrofitting and security clearance before entering the official presidential service approval process. Sources indicated the aircraft donation could be displayed at Trump’s presidential library after his administration completes the required service period.
Boeing has struggled to deliver 747 8 Air Force One planes on schedule, prompting Trump’s criticism of significant production delays and public discussion. Trump’s administration originally contracted Boeing for two specialised 747-8 aircraft during his first presidential term at very high negotiated costs.
Trump praised Qatar’s past large purchases of American aircraft while asserting strong diplomatic ties with the Gulf nation and alliances. Critics claim accepting such a high-value aircraft may violate ethical standards and constitutional gift restrictions without congressional approval, prompting investigations.
Some Democrats called for a Government Accountability Office investigation to determine whether Trump’s acceptance would soon breach federal gift acceptance laws. Observers warn that temporary use discussions may shift into prolonged political controversy unless both nations clearly outline legal framework agreements.
