Defense Secretary Accepts 747 from Qatar Amid Bipartisan Debate
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has officially accepted a Boeing 747 jumbo jet gifted by the Qatari royal family, according to Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell. The move triggers President Donald Trump’s plan to convert the luxurious aircraft into a mobile White House, stirring bipartisan concerns over ethics and security.
Officially Accepted, but Details Remain Classified
Parnell confirmed that “The Secretary of Defense has accepted a Boeing 747 from Qatar in accordance with all federal rules and regulations.” He added that the Department of Defense will prioritize security and mission readiness as it prepares to modify the aircraft for presidential use. An Air Force spokesperson noted that a contract to modify the jet is imminent, but specifics about the project remain classified.
Transforming the Plane Into a Flying White House
The proposal to repurpose the aircraft as a new Air Force One was first reported by The New York Times. During a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, newly confirmed Air Force Secretary Troy Meink revealed that Hegseth “has directed the Air Force to start planning to modify” the jet. This follows Trump’s confirmation on May 11 that the offer from Qatar was a “GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE,” intending it to serve as a temporary presidential aircraft—a stopgap amid delays with the Boeing-built next-generation Air Force One.
Political Backlash: Ethics and Security Risks
The decision drew swift criticism from Democrats and some Republicans. Critics argue that the plane, valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, functions as a personal gift to Trump, raising ethical questions. Additionally, concerns about security risks associated with accepting a foreign-gifted aircraft have been voiced—especially given its origin from Qatar.
In response, administration officials and supporters contend that the aircraft will meet strict military standards for presidential transport. During a House Rules Committee markup of a GOP reconciliation bill, Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT) introduced an amendment [PDF] to prevent federal funds from being used to convert or transfer foreign-owned aircraft for executive use—a move unlikely to pass easily but signaling Democrats’ intent to keep the issue in the spotlight ahead of elections.
Uncertain Costs and Timeline for Conversion
Details regarding the cost of modifications remain undisclosed. Reports previously indicated that L3Harris might be tasked with the aircraft’s conversion. At a hearing on Tuesday, Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) questioned whether the project, which could exceed $1 billion, is progressing under pressure to meet quick deadlines. Secretary Meink responded that any civilian aircraft would require significant modifications to serve as Air Force One and that the Pentagon is actively assessing the scope and costs involved.
Duckworth expressed concern that hurried efforts might compromise security standards, especially given the accelerated timetable. Meink assured that security remains a priority and that all necessary measures would be taken.
Looking Ahead: A Controversial Airlift Solution
The acceptance of the Qatari-initiative aircraft complicates ongoing efforts to modernize presidential airlift capabilities. While the immediate goal is to provide a temporary solution, the decision raises questions about the influence of foreign gifts in military procurement and the security implications tied to operating a foreign-gifted aircraft dedicated to the U.S. presidency.
