Trump's First Flight on New Air Force One With $400M Overhaul of Qatar Gift
Summary
President Donald Trump took his first flight on the newly remodeled Air Force One, a Boeing 747-8 gifted by the government of Qatar and valued at about $400 million. The plane, now painted with new colors chosen by Trump, will be used temporarily until two new Air Force One planes are ready in 2028.Key Facts
- The new Air Force One is a retrofitted Boeing 747-8, gifted by Qatar to the U.S. government.
- The plane’s value is roughly $400 million according to Air Force Secretary Troy Meink.
- The jet arrived at Joint Base Andrews in June 2025 and completed test flights before being cleared for presidential use.
- Exterior colors changed from light blue and white to red, white, navy blue, and gold chosen by President Trump.
- Interior features include a conference table, leather seats, wood paneling, lie-flat seats with massage functions, and individual TV screens.
- The remodel focused on important mission needs; extensive security upgrades may have cost over $1 billion, though official final costs are classified.
- The retrofit used some funds transferred from a nuclear missile program, which has drawn criticism and scrutiny from Congress and watchdogs.
- The current plane acts as a "bridge" until two new purpose-built Air Force One jets are delivered around 2028 after delays and cost overruns.
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