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Trump Orders South Lawn Helipad for Xi Arrival

8/26/2026

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Story summary
  • President Donald Trump ordered the South Lawn leveled to build a White House helipad.
  • The helipad must be completed before Chinese Premier Xi Jinping arrives on September 24, 2026.
  • Sikorsky Aircraft is funding the project with $6 million, though USA Today reports about $5 million.
  • The granite helipad covers over 7,800 square feet, bearing a 100-foot-wide presidential seal.
  • Trump halted work to remove stone and re-level the slope.