The Boeing 747-8 jetliner gifted to the Trump administration by the Qatari royal family is expected to be delivered by summer 2026, according to the US Air Force. The aircraft, often described as a 'flying palace', is set to serve as the new Air Force One.
An Air Force spokesperson confirmed the timeline, stating: 'The Air Force remains committed to expediting delivery of the VC-25 bridge aircraft in support of the Presidential airlift mission, with an anticipated delivery no later than summer 2026.' The Air Force has accepted the gift, which will be used for executive airlift.
The estimated $400m gift, announced last May, drew bipartisan backlash over ethical concerns regarding Qatar's motives and the 13-year-old plane's security. Trump defended the gift, calling it a 'very nice gesture' and saying he would not turn down such an offer.
The aircraft is currently being refitted to meet presidential security standards, including missile defence systems, secure communications, and protection against electromagnetic pulses. The delivery timeline is widely expected to coincide with the US's 250th birthday on 4 July.
Earlier this week, Trump's current Air Force One was forced to return to Washington DC after a minor electrical issue, prompting him to switch to a smaller Boeing 757 for domestic travel.
