Trump Unveils New Air Force One Jet – A Gift from Qatar
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US President Donald Trump officially unveiled his new Air Force One jet on Friday – a luxury Boeing 747 controversially gifted to the United States by the Qatari government. The president announced that the aircraft would lead a ceremonial flyover in Washington on July 4, marking the nation's 250th anniversary.
Trump made the reveal at Joint Base Andrews, just outside the capital, arriving at the event by stepping off the plane itself and walking down its stairs. The jet sports a striking red, white, and dark-blue colour scheme – a noticeable shift from the lighter blue of its predecessor – and is set to be used by Trump during the landmark anniversary celebrations.
"Nobody tops this one, and that's the way we have to have it for our country. Nobody even comes close," Trump declared. He added that the jet would lead a flyover on July 4 involving various other military aircraft – "the likes of which we've never seen before." He heaped praise on the plane, calling it "the largest and the greatest in every aspect" and describing it as "a flying White House at a level of luxury no one has ever seen before."
Trump indicated that his return journey from this week's G7 summit in France would be his final flight on the existing fleet.
The aircraft is estimated to be worth around $400 million, though the U.S. government has likely spent substantially more to make it operational. The Qatari government's involvement has drawn bipartisan criticism, with lawmakers raising concerns over both security and ethical implications. Aviation experts estimate that the total cost of overhauling the plane – including necessary security upgrades – could exceed $1 billion.
Although the jet is intended for presidential duties, the White House has said that it will eventually be transferred to Trump's presidential library foundation after he leaves office.
In a press release on Friday, the Air Force confirmed that the plane is ready for "initial commissioning flights" to ensure it can safely transport the president and support his official responsibilities. The aircraft, designated by the Air Force as VC-25B Bridge, is now described as a "secure, modified executive platform." The Air Force added that the new jet will "relieve pressure" on the existing fleet currently used for presidential transport.
It is worth noting that the "Air Force One" call sign applies to any aircraft carrying the president. At present, two other 747 jumbo jets continue to serve in that role. (Source: NBC)
