Experts warn that the cost to retrofit Trump’s gifted jet as Air Force One could soar to \$1 billion, burdening U.S. taxpayers heavily.
President Donald Trump is reportedly set to receive an extraordinary gift, a Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet from the Qatar royal family.
Experts warn this lavish gift may cost taxpayers $1 billion once converted into the next Air Force One.
This unexpected development sparked debate over financial and logistical issues during Trump’s Middle East tour.
Understanding the legacy of Air Force One.
The existing Air Force One planes, designated as VC-25As, have faithfully served U.S. presidents for decades.
However, the fleet is aging and scheduled for replacement by Boeing’s updated VC-25Bs in 2027.
New planes feature advanced security, communication, and defense systems vital for presidential travel and safety.
Any new aircraft chosen for this role must meet these strict and highly specialized requirements.
Qatar offers an expensive jet as a presidential gift.
The proposed gift from Qatar is a 13-year-old Boeing 747-8, valued roughly at $400 million.
Trump expressed enthusiasm about the gift, stating that rejecting such an offer would be foolish.
The jet has been nicknamed the “palace in the sky” due to its luxurious design and size, fitting for a head of state.
However, experts caution that the initial value doesn’t reflect the true cost of retrofitting the plane to meet Air Force One’s demanding standards.
Experts explain why Trump’s new jet could cost US taxpayers $1,000,000,000
Retrofitting the donated jet would require an extensive overhaul, pushing the total cost far beyond its purchase price.
Aviation analyst Richard Aboulafia explains that the process involves disassembling the plane.
It is then upgraded with advanced government technology and reassembled with comprehensive security features.
These modifications include secure communication systems, missile defense mechanisms, and midair refueling capability.
They also provide nuclear command functions, vital for Air Force One’s role during crises.
The plane must be fully stripped and scanned to remove surveillance before installing secure government equipment.
Living quarters for the president, the medical team, and Secret Service agents must also be incorporated.
The complexity of these additions, combined with the high-security demands, means the cost to transform the jet could soar close to $1 billion.
Logistical challenges and contract considerations remain significant hurdles.
Boeing is currently engaged in a $5.3 billion contract to build two new VC-25Bs intended to replace the existing presidential fleet.
Aboulafia continued: “Since you’re also disassembling and reassembling the jet for security reasons, you’re probably going to go with the people who know it better. If you have to rip the plane apart, that’s more of a Boeing job.”
Introducing a third plane, especially a gifted one requiring a similar conversion, could disrupt these plans and add unnecessary complexity.
The company already has extensive experience with the 747 series and government contracts.
As a result, it would likely handle the costly retrofit, which may overlap with existing projects.
The decision to accept and convert the Qatar jet also faces timing challenges.
Experts say it would not be ready to serve as Air Force One before Trump’s term ends in 2029.
The aircraft is set for Trump’s library, prompting concerns about the federal investment’s long-term value.