The plan by U.S. President Donald Trump to accept a Boeing 747-8 as a gift from the Qatari royal family has drawn sharp criticism regarding the legal implications of such a significant foreign donation to the U.S. government.
Sources familiar with the situation confirmed to NBC News that Trump intends to utilize the luxury jet as Air Force One. The ownership of the aircraft is said to be transferred to the Trump presidential library foundation once his second term concludes.
A senior official from the Justice Department indicated that the Office of Legal Counsel had drafted a memo, sanctioned by Attorney General Pam Bondi, asserting the legality of the Department of Defense accepting the aircraft from Qatar for use as Air Force One, with plans for its eventual gifting to Trump post-presidency. This memo has not been made public.
During a briefing with reporters at the White House, Trump addressed the situation, attributing the acceptance of the jet to delays in production at U.S. manufacturer Boeing, which produces the renowned 747 model.
“You look at some of the Arab countries and the planes they have parked alongside the United States of America plane, it’s like from a different planet,” he stated.
He expressed respect for Qatari leadership, noting that they were aware of the manufacturing delays and had offered to assist by contributing a 747 for temporary use. “I think that was a very nice gesture,” Trump added.
‘Concerns Over Foreign Influence’
The proposal has faced backlash from both Democratic lawmakers and some allies of Trump, who argue that the opulence of the gift raises ethical and legal red flags.
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders voiced his concerns on social media, stating, “I don’t know who needs to hear this, but NO, Donald Trump cannot accept a $400 million flying palace from the royal family of Qatar.” He characterized the potential acceptance as “farcically corrupt” and “blatantly unconstitutional.”
In contrast, far-right Trump ally Laura Loomer described the acceptance of the gift as a potential “stain” on the administration.
On his platform Truth Social, Trump defended the potential donation, arguing that the Defense Department receiving a complimentary 747 is a transparent transaction that displeases Democrats, who he claims want the U.S. to pay full price instead.
This report emerges as Trump prepares for his inaugural major overseas trip of his second term, set to take place in Qatar this week.
Ali Al-Ansari, Qatar’s Media Attaché, clarified to Finance Newso that the notion of gifting the jet during Trump’s visit is inaccurate. He stated, “The possible transfer of an aircraft for temporary use as Air Force One is currently under consideration between Qatar’s Ministry of Defense and the US Department of Defense, but the matter remains under review by the respective legal departments, and no decision has been made.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed confidence that Qatar does not expect any quid pro quo in exchange for the aircraft, emphasizing Trump’s dedication to American interests. In a statement, she reaffirmed that any foreign gift is accepted in accordance with relevant laws, ensuring transparency.
A White House official indicated that the aircraft would not be presented to Trump during his visit in the region.
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Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer argued that the acceptance of such a gift would signify an unwelcome “foreign influence.” Schumer remarked, “Nothing says ‘America First’ like Air Force One, brought to you by Qatar. It’s not just bribery, it’s premium foreign influence with extra legroom.”
Representative Brendan Boyle (D-Pa) emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance against corruption. He stated, “We have to pursue this legally in the courts, we have to raise public awareness. It is absolutely remarkable, the record levels of corruption that we’re seeing.”
– Finance Newso’s Emma Graham contributed reporting
