Qatar Offers Boeing 747 to Trump as a Gift for Temporary Air Force One Use

U.S. President Donald Trump had requested a Boeing 747 aircraft from Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, for temporary use as the country’s current presidential aircraft fleet continues to age. However, instead of lending the aircraft, the Qatari ruler reportedly offered to give it to the United States as a permanent gift.

Anadolu Agency confirmed the report in a story published Thursday.

Speaking to supporters at a campaign rally in Arizona, Trump said that when someone offers a gift, the customary response is to accept it. He also expressed gratitude on behalf of the United States for the aircraft offered by the Qatari emir.

The request came as the two aircraft currently serving as Air Force One are more than 35 years old. Trump had sought the Boeing 747 for interim use while the United States awaits delivery of its replacement presidential aircraft.

According to Trump, Sheikh Tamim referred to him as a friend and declined to lend the aircraft for temporary use, instead offering it as a permanent gift to the United States. Trump said he accepted the offer.

The U.S. Air Force has designated the gifted aircraft as the VC-25B. It is expected to serve as Air Force One until two new Boeing presidential aircraft are delivered in 2028.

The proposed transfer has drawn attention because of the aircraft’s role in presidential transportation and the unusual nature of a foreign leader offering such an aircraft to the United States.