US President Donald Trump unveiled a new Boeing 747, a gift from Qatar, which is to be used as a temporary aircraft for presidential flights. Trump described it as «the biggest and best in every sense».
The US President has unveiled a refurbished Boeing 747, which will serve as a temporary Air Force One.
- Trump unveiled a Boeing 747 donated by the Qatari government.
- The aircraft will serve as a temporary Air Force One until 2028.
- The aircraft is estimated to be worth 400 million dollars.
- The handover of the aircraft sparked political controversy in the US.
The new-generation Flying White House
The unveiling of the new Boeing 747 took place at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland. The aircraft, which was previously used by the Qatari authorities, has been refitted for presidential missions. Following the refurbishment, it has been given a new red, white and blue livery, as well as upgraded communications and security systems.
Trump During a press conference, he remarked that the new aircraft was «the most luxurious aeroplane in the world», surpassing the aircraft of many world leaders in terms of comfort and facilities. He emphasised that the United States must have a presidential aircraft befitting the country’s status.
Why did the US receive an aeroplane from Qatar?
The donated Boeing is to serve as a «stopgap» until the construction of the two new aircraft is completed Air Force One, the production of which Boeing has delayed by several years. The new presidential aircraft are not expected to enter service until 2028 at the earliest. According to US media reports, the cost of each aircraft is estimated at around $400 million, whilst the modifications required to meet presidential requirements have cost a further substantial sum.
The gift sparked controversy
The handover of the aircraft has become the subject of heated political debate in the US. Critics have expressed concern about accepting such an expensive gift from a foreign state and about potential security issues. At the same time, the Trump administration insists that all procedures were carried out in accordance with the law and that the aircraft has undergone the necessary modernisation.
