New Presidential Jet Shown at Joint Base Andrews
US President Donald Trump has unveiled an upgraded Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar, as the aircraft prepares to join the Air Force One fleet.
Trump viewed the aircraft on Friday at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.
The jumbo jet was offered by Qatar last year and has since been overhauled by defence contractor L3Harris Technologies.
The aircraft has also undergone flight testing and has been painted in a new red, white, dark blue, and gold colour scheme selected by Trump.
The plane is expected to provide a more modern and luxurious travel option for the president, senior aides, security personnel, and the media.
Security and Cost Questions Remain
The upgrade cost has not been disclosed.
The fast-track conversion has raised questions among some experts, who say the aircraft may not have the same level of security as existing Air Force One planes.
Officials said some planned modifications were skipped to deliver an interim version sooner. However, the Air Force said the aircraft meets presidential mission standards.
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink said the safety and security of the commander in chief remain the top priority.
The US government’s acceptance of the aircraft from Qatar has also drawn criticism. Some lawmakers questioned whether such an expensive gift was appropriate.
Trump rejected the criticism and said it would be unwise to refuse the offer.
Experts said the retrofit required secure communications, anti-eavesdropping systems, and missile defence upgrades.
Democratic senators have estimated that the conversion could cost more than $1 billion.
Trump Announces China and Turkiye Travel Plans
The Qatari aircraft will serve as a bridge plane while Boeing completes two new 747-8 presidential jets under a major contract signed in 2018.
That programme is several years behind schedule, with delivery now expected around mid-2028.
Trump also announced new travel plans during the event.
He said Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit the United States in September.
Trump added that he also plans to travel to Turkiye and return to China later in 2026 for a major conference.
The new Air Force One colour scheme marks a major shift from the traditional blue-and-white design used since the Kennedy administration.
