Overview

• The Trump administration plans to accept a $400 million Boeing 747-8 jet from the Qatari royal family for temporary use as Air Force One, with plans to transfer it to Trump’s presidential library after his term.
• Former Vice President Mike Pence and several Republican lawmakers have raised concerns over constitutional violations, security risks, and Qatar’s history of supporting extremist groups.
• Critics argue that accepting the jet without congressional approval could violate the Constitution’s Emoluments Clause, which prohibits public officials from receiving gifts from foreign states.
• Experts warn that retrofitting the jet to meet Air Force One’s security and operational standards could take years and cost over $1 billion.
• Lawmakers, including Rep. Rob Wittman, insist that Congress must vote on whether to accept the jet and appropriate funds for its conversion.