The Trump administration has accepted an “unconditional donation” of a luxury jet from Qatar, according to a memorandum of understanding reviewed by ABC News.
The Air Force plans to retrofit the aircraft—described as a “flying palace”—for use by President Donald Trump.
Agreement Signed with Qatari Officials
The deal was formalized earlier this month through an agreement between Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Qatar’s Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Soud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani. The aircraft was donated “as is,” with no restrictions on future use or disposal.
Refitting Costs Remain Classified
Although the cost of retrofitting the plane has not been disclosed, lawmakers speculate it could reach up to $1 billion. The Air Force confirmed the funding would come from the Sentinel program, which is intended to replace aging nuclear missiles. Officials said that restructuring efforts in the program would prevent any immediate delays.
Controversy Over Use and Ownership
Sources told ABC News that the current plan is to eventually transfer ownership of the aircraft to the Trump presidential library foundation once Trump leaves office. Critics have raised concerns about the use of taxpayer money on a plane that may only be used by Trump for a few months.
“Why would we ask the American taxpayer to spend upwards of $1 billion on a plane that would then only be used for a handful of months and then transfer directly to the president?” asked Sen. Chris Murphy, D-N.Y., during a June Senate hearing.
No Strings Attached, Memo Says
According to the agreement, the aircraft is a “bona fide gift” with no expectation of favoritism or return. It states the plane “may be used or disposed of by the DOD in its sole discretion,” provided it complies with U.S. law. The memo also includes language clarifying that the donation should not be interpreted as a form of bribery or undue influence.
Background on Trump and Air Force One
President Trump has repeatedly criticized the current Air Force One fleet—Boeing 747-200s that have been in use since 1990. The Air Force already has a contract with Boeing to replace them, but the new Qatari jet presents a potential alternative.
The aircraft, a Qatari Boeing 747, was spotted at Palm Beach International Airport earlier this year after Trump toured it. The Washington Post was the first to report the full details of the agreement.
For more on the controversial and possibly “unconstitutional” jet gift, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.