Trump's Qatari jet gift raises eyebrows as conversion costs to Air Force One exceed $1 billion

The acceptance of a $400 million jet from Qatar has sparked controversy, with Democrats warning that converting it to Air Force One standards could cost over $1 billion, raising ethical and security concerns.

Sources:
Australian Broadcasting CorporationNdtvIndiatoday
Updated 2h ago
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Sources: NdtvIndiatoday
Donald Trump has accepted a Boeing 747 from Qatar, valued at $400 million, as a temporary Air Force One. The Pentagon confirmed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth accepted the jet, which Trump described as a 'gift from a nation.'
However, conversion costs to meet Air Force standards are estimated to exceed $1 billion. Democrats are raising concerns and seeking to block the handover, citing potential legal issues regarding foreign gifts.
Trump defended the acquisition, stating, 'But for you to go on to a subject about a jet that was given to the United States Air Force, which is a very nice thing.'
The former president toured the jet in February, and the Trump administration initially approached Qatar about acquiring a plane for official use.
Trump's recent Middle East trip also included announcements of $200 billion in deals, further solidifying his role as a global broker.
Sources: Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Donald Trump has accepted a luxurious Boeing 747 from Qatar, dubbed a 'flying palace,' as a temporary Air Force One. However, conversion costs to meet Air Force standards could exceed $1 billion, prompting legal scrutiny and opposition from Democrats seeking to block the handover.
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The Headline

Trump's jet gift and conversion costs

It will be used by our Government as a temporary Air Force One, until such time as our new Boeings, which are very late on delivery, arrive.
Donald Trump
Former President of the United States
Ndtv
Key Facts
  • Trump accepted a $400 million luxury jet from Qatar, known as a 'flying palace'.Australian Broadcasting CorporationNdtv
  • Democrats have estimated that conversion costs to Air Force One standards would exceed $1 billion.Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Key Stats at a Glance
Estimated conversion costs to Air Force One standards
$1 billion
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Value of the jet
$400 million
Ndtv

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Background Context

Background on Trump's jet and Middle East trip

Key Facts
  • Trump toured the Qatari Boeing plane in February at a Florida airport, indicating prior interest in acquiring a suitable aircraft.Australian Broadcasting Corporation
  • During his recent trip to the Middle East, Trump announced $200 billion in deals, showcasing his diplomatic efforts.Indiatoday
Key Stats at a Glance
Total deals announced during Middle East trip
$200 billion
Indiatoday
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