US targets July 4 delivery of Qatar-gifted Boeing 747 as Air Force One
The US Air Force plans to incorporate a Boeing 747, donated by Qatar, into the Air Force One fleet by July 4, 2025, coinciding with the country’s 250th anniversary. The luxury aircraft was accepted by the White House in 2025, and L3Harris has been assigned to expedite its upgrades to meet presidential requirements. Additionally, there are initiatives to have the plane ready three weeks earlier, on June 14, to celebrate President Donald Trump's birthday. This Qatari donation has faced backlash from Democrats and government watchdogs, citing potential conflicts of interest. Trump has dismissed these concerns, labeling it 'stupid' to reject the 13-year-old aircraft, valued at US$400 million.
Key facts
- US Air Force targets July 4, 2025 delivery of Qatar-gifted Boeing 747 for Air Force One fleet
- Aircraft gifted by Qatar in 2025, accepted by White House
- L3Harris tapped for rapid upgrade to presidential standards
- Possible earlier delivery on June 14 for Trump's birthday
- Criticism from Democrats and good-government advocates over conflict of interest
- Trump dismissed criticism, said it would be 'stupid' to refuse
- Plane is 13 years old with US$400 million list price
- Delivery aligns with nation's 250th anniversary
Entities
Institutions
- US Air Force
- White House
- L3Harris
- Boeing
Locations
- United States
- Qatar
- Palm Beach International Airport