Qatar to Gift Trump $400M “Flying Palace” as Potential Air Force One

U.S. media reports indicate Qatar’s royal family will gift President Donald Trump a $400 million Boeing 747-8 aircraft, dubbed the “Flying Palace,” which could serve as a future Air Force One if he secures a second term in office, Khaama Press reported.

The jet, inspected by Trump in February at West Palm Beach International Airport, will be transferred to a Trump-affiliated foundation in 2029, according to The Daily Telegraph (May 12, 2025).

The luxury aircraft will reportedly be equipped with military-grade systems for presidential use. Legal experts cite constitutional concerns over federal officials accepting foreign gifts without Congressional approval, though the White House asserts the donation targets a federal institution, not Trump personally. This coincides with delays in the delivery of two new Air Force One planes ordered during Trump’s presidency, now potentially postponed until 2035.

Trump’s upcoming Gulf visit aims to finalize commercial and security agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. Meanwhile, his family’s business ventures in the region—including a $4 billion Oman golf complex and Dubai properties—have drawn scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest. Analysts suggest Gulf states view Trump’s brand as strategic leverage for future diplomatic relations.