Qatar gifting Trump a luxury jet for Air Force One use, DOJ clears massive foreign gift says no emoluments violation

Donald Trump is preparing to accept a super luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet from the royal family of Qatar, a move that is already raising questions about ethics, diplomacy, and financial transparency. The aircraft, described as a “flying palace,” is expected to serve as Air Force One until the end of Trump’s second term, after which ownership will be transferred to his presidential library foundation.

The jet, reportedly worth $400 million, was inspected by Trump and his aides in Florida earlier this year. Sources familiar with the arrangement say the offer has been under discussion for months, and when the formal proposal was made, Trump “happily accepted.” The deal is expected to be announced during his upcoming visit to Qatar, where he will also meet with American troops at al-Udeid Air Base.

Legal experts have weighed in on the transaction. Attorney General Pam Bondi and White House lawyers have reviewed the arrangement and concluded that it is legally permissible, provided the aircraft is transferred to Trump’s presidential library before the end of his term. The Department of Defense will initially take possession of the jet, modifying it to meet U.S. military specifications before it is used for presidential travel.

Qatar’s government has pushed back on reports of a formal gift. Ali Al-Ansari, Qatar’s media attaché to the U.S., stated that the “possible transfer of an aircraft for temporary use as Air Force One is currently under consideration,” but emphasized that “no decision has been made.” The statement suggests that negotiations are ongoing, and the final terms of the deal may still be subject to change.

The timing of this arrangement is notable. Trump has expressed frustration with Boeing’s delays in delivering new Air Force One jets, complaining that the process has taken far longer than expected. The Qatar jet offers a quick solution, allowing Trump to bypass the delays and secure a high-end aircraft for presidential travel.

SOURCES:

https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-administration-poised-accept-palace-sky-gift-trump/story?id=121680511

https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-administration-will-accept-luxury-jet-qatar-use-air-force-one-rcna206111

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/05/11/trump-administration-will-accept-luxury-jet-from-qatari-royal-family/83570215007/