President Donald Trump’s new jet from Qatar will be ready for use after it has been worked on by the Pentagon. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has accepted a Boeing 747 from Qatar that President Trump will use once the Pentagon upgrades it to include “proper security measures and functional-mission requirements,” according to a Defense Department spokesperson.
“The secretary of defense has accepted a Boeing 747 from Qatar in accordance with all federal rules and regulations,” chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement on Wednesday. “The Department of Defense will work to ensure proper security measures and functional-mission requirements are considered for an aircraft used to transport the president of the United States.”
READ: Boeing and GE Aerospace secure $96 billion deal from Qatar Airways (May 15, 2025)
The Boeing 747, often referred to as the “Queen of the Skies,” has long been associated with luxury air travel. With its distinctive humpbacked design, the 747 revolutionized long-haul flying, offering spacious cabins and advanced amenities. Airlines equipped the 747 with luxurious features such as private suites, lie-flat seats, exclusive lounges, and gourmet dining options, providing passengers with an elevated flying experience. The aircraft’s expansive interior allowed for innovative designs, creating a comfortable, high-end atmosphere. Although the 747 has been retired from many commercial fleets, its legacy in luxury aviation remains iconic.
A person familiar with the discussions, however, countered that the deal has not yet been finalized and that the talks between the legal teams are ongoing.
An Air Force spokesperson told CNN that “as directed by the Secretary of Defense, the Air Force is preparing to award a contract to modify a Boeing 747 aircraft for executive airlift. Details related to the contract are classified.”
Accepting and using the Boeing 747 from Qatar would have significant implications for President Trump, potentially raising concerns over ethics, influence, and foreign relations. Such a gesture could be viewed as an extravagant gift from a foreign government, possibly creating conflicts of interest or perceptions of favoritism. The aircraft, customized as a luxury jet, could symbolize a closer relationship between Qatar and Trump’s administration. Critics may question whether this would influence U.S. policies or decisions, while supporters might argue it reflects strong international ties. Ultimately, the decision to accept such a gift would attract scrutiny and political debate.