White House, Qatar in Talks Over Potential Use of Luxury Jet as Temporary Air Force One

The White House is currently engaged in negotiations with Qatar’s royal family over the possible transfer of a luxury aircraft for temporary use as an Air Force One jet, sparking both diplomatic intrigue and political scrutiny.

While the Qatari government has clarified that the aircraft would not be a gift, officials confirmed that talks are ongoing regarding its temporary use by the U.S. government. Qatar’s Media Attaché to the U.S., Ali Al-Ansari, said discussions are being conducted between Qatar’s Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense, with legal reviews still underway. “No decision has been made,” he stated.

The aircraft in question is believed to be a Boeing 747-8, a significantly newer and more opulent model than the current Air Force One fleet, which consists of two aging Boeing 747-200Bs that have served since the early 1990s. According to U.S. Air Force specifications, the presidential aircraft are outfitted with advanced communication systems, secure office space, and living quarters. The 747-8 variant offered by Qatar is reportedly outfitted to “flying palace” standards, according to ABC News.

The arrangement has drawn particular attention amid former President Donald Trump’s impending state visit to Qatar – his first major international trip of his second term. Sources close to the matter told CBS News that the aircraft is expected to be retrofitted to meet U.S. security and operational standards, delaying its deployment for official use.

Adding a political twist, Trump referred to the aircraft as a “gift” in a post on Truth Social, emphasizing that it would be provided at no cost and calling Democratic criticism “unnecessary outrage.” However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt maintained that all foreign gifts are handled in accordance with U.S. law and that the administration is committed to transparency.

Legal and ethical concerns have emerged over the nature of the agreement, particularly surrounding the value of the aircraft and its potential long-term use. Reports also suggest that after Trump leaves office, the jet could be transferred to his presidential library – mirroring the precedent set by Ronald Reagan’s library, which houses a retired Air Force One aircraft.

The potential aircraft deal also comes as Boeing struggles to deliver two new Air Force One planes contracted during Trump’s first term. With delays pushing the delivery to 2027 or 2028, Trump voiced frustration earlier this year, suggesting that an alternative solution – such as Qatar’s offer – may be necessary.

Qatar, which has previously gifted luxury aircraft to other nations, including Turkey in 2018, maintains a strong diplomatic relationship with the U.S., particularly during Trump’s prior administration. In 2019, the Gulf nation committed to a significant purchase of American aircraft, strengthening its ties to U.S. aviation and defense sectors.

The outcome of the current negotiations remains uncertain, but the discussions signal a high-profile intersection of diplomacy, military logistics, and presidential politics.