President Trump seems poised to accept a Boeing 747-8 jet as a lavish gift from Qatar, according to several reports.
The Qatari Royal Family is reportedly coordinating the gift, with a recent ABC report indicating that the aircraft could be used for presidential travel before Trump’s second term concludes. Additionally, the Trump Presidential Library Foundation is said to be slated to take ownership of the plane.
Insiders suggest that an official announcement regarding the gift will coincide with Trump’s upcoming trip to Qatar next week, as reported by ABC News.
However, media from Qatar reported that discussions are ongoing about transferring the jets to the U.S. government. An email statement noted, “The potential for temporary use of the aircraft as part of the Air Force is being evaluated by both Qatar and the U.S. Department of Defense, but legal considerations are still under review, and no final decisions have been made,” according to Ali Al Ansari.
This donation was initially highlighted by ABC News.
Back in February, Trump expressed frustration with Boeing, mentioning delays that left him feeling somewhat fed up. He stated, “I bought an airplane. That’s really two planes, Air Force 1. If Boeing could deliver, that would be beneficial, but I’m not looking for a repeat of past experiences.” He added that he had placed an order six years prior and was still waiting.
ABC reported that legal advisors for the White House and the Department of Justice concluded it would be permissible for Trump to accept such gifts on behalf of the U.S.
According to ABC News, Attorney General Pam Bondy and White House lawyer David Warrington affirmed that the gift would be considered “legally acceptable” when presented for the presidential library.
CNN has mentioned that the Boeing jet is currently in Palm Beach, Florida, with sources indicating this year’s travel includes Trump himself.
The Hill has reached out to the White House, the DOJ, the Department of Defense, and Boeing for comments.
