Summary
The US is preparing a Qatari jumbo jet to be used as Air Force One for President Donald Trump. Qatar is donating the Boeing aircraft, which is worth $400 million, and the US will cover the costs to modify it. The donation has sparked criticism due to legal and ethical concerns regarding gifts from foreign governments.
Key Facts
- The jet, a Boeing 747-8, is being donated by Qatar as a gift for use as Air Force One.
- The aircraft is valued at $400 million, and the US government will pay for necessary modifications.
- Critics from both political parties worry it could be seen as a "bribe" from a foreign country.
- The White House states that accepting the plane complies with legal rules.
- US law typically only allows officials to accept gifts valued under $480.
- Security checks will be done to ensure the plane is free from surveillance devices.
- The plan is to donate the plane to Trump's presidential library after he leaves office.
- The cost to retrofit the plane is not yet known but expected to be high.
