Story perspectives

Trump Flies Qatar-Gifted Air Force One Amid Cost Controversy

7/6/2026

Center

Trump Flies Qatar Gift

The Qatar-donated Boeing 747-8 was repainted in a red, white, navy-blue and gold livery.
President Donald Trump flew the Qatar-gifted Boeing 747-8 from Andrews to North Dakota on its inaugural Air Force One mission.
The Air Force said the retrofit cost under $400 million, but total expense was undisclosed.
Critics warned ethical and security risks, while Trump said taxpayers paid very little.

Left

Democrats Block Jet

Democratic lawmakers plan to block the $400 million Qatar-gifted jet from entering President Donald Trump’s future Miami library.
President Donald Trump praised the jet’s leather seats, wood paneling and other luxury features during its inaugural flight.
Online users mocked the plush décor, highlighting a bookshelf filled with fake books labeled “Library.”
Rep. Joe Courtney introduced an amendment to retain ownership of the aircraft, citing ethical concerns.

History

Historical Context

The Ethics in Government Act of 1978, enacted after Watergate, established the Office of Government Ethics and mandated public disclosure of financial interests by federal officials. Today Rep. Joe Courtney and the House Ethics Committee cite that law to block Qatar’s $400 million Boeing 747-8 donation to former President Trump’s library, arguing the aircraft should remain federal property under the Act’s accountability rules.

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Trump Flies Qatar Gift

The Qatar-donated Boeing 747-8 was repainted in a red, white, navy-blue and gold livery.
President Donald Trump flew the Qatar-gifted Boeing 747-8 from Andrews to North Dakota on its inaugural Air Force One mission.
The Air Force said the retrofit cost under $400 million, but total expense was undisclosed.
Critics warned ethical and security risks, while Trump said taxpayers paid very little.

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