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Trump administration pursued purchase of Qatar-owned Boeing 747-8

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Trump administration pursued purchase of Qatar-owned Boeing 747-8
Policy
Webp stevencheung
Steven Cheung White House Communications Director | Wikipedia

President Trump's administration reportedly initiated discussions about acquiring a Qatar-owned luxury Boeing 747-8, challenging the narrative that it was offered as a gift by the Qatari government. The aircraft's acquisition comes amid delays in the delivery of Boeing's modified 747-8s (VC-25Bs), which are set to replace the current Air Force One jets.

Sources suggest that Trump's administration first inquired about purchasing the aircraft rather than Qatar offering it as a gift. Following Boeing's notification to the Pentagon about delivery delays, Trump tasked Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff with identifying potential replacement aircraft. According to CNN, negotiations began after the White House expressed interest in acquiring the jet.

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung criticized Boeing for not delivering on time. Despite Trump's public claims of receiving the plane as a "GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE," sources indicate otherwise. The Defense Department accepted the 747-8 from Qatar and is working on modifications for presidential use.

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The transformation of this luxury jet into Air Force One is expected to be costly and time-consuming. L3Harris Technologies has been contracted for this task but recently settled allegations of pricing fabrication with a $62 million agreement without admitting fault.

After Trump's presidency, plans are underway to donate the aircraft to his presidential library, though he has denied intentions to fly it post-term.

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