Chicago – June 20, 2026
US President Donald Trump officially unveiled a luxurious $400 million Boeing 747-8 jet gifted by the government of Qatar, which will serve as the interim Air Force One until delayed next-generation presidential aircraft arrive in 2027–2028. The unveiling took place Friday at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, where Trump introduced the VC-25B aircraft featuring a striking red, white, dark blue, and gold livery he personally selected.
The Qatari royal family donated the Boeing 747-8 to the US Department of Defense in May 2025, describing it as an “unconditional gift” valued at approximately $400 million. The aircraft has undergone military modifications by defense contractor L3Harris Technologies, including upgraded security systems and modern communications capabilities. Trump declared it “the world’s most luxurious plane,” noting its craftsmanship will “probably never be seen again”.
The jet will serve as a stopgap solution until two delayed VC-25B jets arrive, with the program’s costs ballooning from $3.7 billion to $5 billion. Critics have raised ethical and security concerns over accepting such an expensive foreign gift. The aircraft is scheduled for a ceremonial flyover over Washington on July 4, marking the US’s 250th anniversary.
