President Donald Trump has boasted about the red, white and blue colour scheme he personally chose for a $400 million (£320 million) jet gifted by Qatar, which he unveiled as the new Air Force One. Speaking at Joint Base Andrews on Friday, Trump said the design was a departure from the traditional light blue of previous presidential planes, declaring it was 'time for a change'.
The jet, which Trump will retain after his term ends, has drawn criticism over security concerns and potential conflicts of interest. Senator Bernie Sanders called the deal 'farcically corrupt' and 'blatantly unconstitutional', while a Harvard/Harris poll found 62 per cent of voters believed it raised ethical concerns about corruption.
Trump dismissed the backlash, writing on Truth Social that 'only a FOOL would not accept this gift on behalf of our Country'. He argued that the plane spares taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, as it was provided free by Qatar. The president described the aircraft as 'the world's most luxurious plane' and a 'flying White House'.
The Air Force announced in May that it had completed modifications and testing for temporary use, though the jet is not yet ready to carry Trump. It will soon begin commissioning flights and is expected to take part in a flyover for America's 250th birthday. After Trump leaves office, the plane will be donated to his presidential library, replacing the older Boeing 747-200B fleet.
