Trump Defends Plan to Accept Qatar’s Jet as Air Force One Gift Amid Legal Scrutiny
Former President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 11) defended plans to accept a Boeing 747-8 jet reportedly offered by Qatar as a gift for temporary use as Air Force One, calling it a “transparent transaction” that would benefit the US government. The move, however, has triggered intense debate in Washington over its legality and ethics, with critics arguing it could violate constitutional provisions that prohibit gifts from foreign governments.
The aircraft, described by Trump as a “flying palace,” would reportedly be transferred first to the US Defense Department, then used temporarily before eventually being handed over to his presidential library after he leaves office. The jet, worth an estimated $400 million, could become the most expensive gift ever accepted by the US government if approved.
What are the legal concerns surrounding the gift?
The US Constitution’s emoluments clause bars federal officials from accepting gifts from foreign states without congressional approval. Critics argue the aircraft arrangement could amount to an illegal gift, even if it is routed through the U.S. military. Trump has claimed the transfer is legal because the aircraft would not be given to him personally, but to the Department of Defense and later his presidential library.
Qatar’s Ministry of Defense has said no final decision has been made and denied reports that a gift had already been offered. The country’s media attaché in Washington, Ali Al-Ansari, stated the aircraft’s transfer was “under consideration” between the two governments, but pushed back on claims it was a done deal.
What has Trump said in defence of the plan?
Trump dismissed concerns in a social media post late Sunday, saying the plane was a temporary gift to the US government and would replace ageing Air Force One jets that are over four decades old. He did not directly address Qatar in the post but said Democrats were trying to politicise what he described as a practical solution to delays in Boeing’s delivery of new presidential aircraft.
The former president, 78, has long voiced frustration with the current Air Force One program, citing delays, cost overruns, and design disputes with Boeing. The aerospace company agreed in 2018 to supply two new 747-8 aircraft for $3.9 billion by the end of 2024, but delays due to subcontractor issues and the COVID-19 pandemic have pushed delivery to 2027 and 2028.
How have political opponents and allies reacted?
The response has been sharply divided. Democrats have condemned the potential deal as unethical and possibly illegal. Senator Chris Murphy called it “wildly illegal,” while Representative Kelly Morrison called it “corruption in plain sight.” The Democratic National Committee accused Trump of using public office for personal gain, saying the move exemplifies his focus on enriching himself and his allies.
Even some figures from the political right have raised objections. Far-right activist Laura Loomer warned the gift would be a “stain” on Trump’s legacy, accusing Qatar of financing groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, which the US designates as terrorist organisations.
Is the gift actually being accepted?
Despite Trump’s public comments, the White House and the Department of Justice have reportedly reviewed the arrangement and determined it may be legal, provided the aircraft is not accepted in return for any specific favour. Officials have said the gift does not violate the Constitution because it is routed through the Defense Department and ultimately intended for institutional, not personal, use.
Still, Qatar’s efforts to temper expectations— and the lack of a formal agreement— suggest that the plan remains fluid. Trump is expected to visit Qatar and two other Middle Eastern countries later this week, where an official announcement on the aircraft may be made. For now, the proposal continues to draw scrutiny from both legal scholars and lawmakers across the political spectrum.
