President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to accept a luxury Boeing 747-8 aircraft from Qatar’s royal family to temporarily serve as Air Force One, amid delays in the delivery of new presidential aircraft by Boeing. The plane, valued at approximately $400 million, is described as a “flying palace” due to its opulent features. After Trump’s presidency, the aircraft is expected to be donated to his presidential library foundation.

Trump confirmed the plan on his social media platform, Truth Social, emphasizing that the Defense Department would receive the aircraft free of charge in a transparent transaction. He criticized Democratic opposition, stating that they prefer paying top dollar for a new plane.

The proposal has sparked legal and ethical concerns. Critics, including Democratic lawmakers and ethics watchdogs, argue that accepting such a gift from a foreign government without congressional approval could violate the U.S. Constitution’s Emoluments Clause. Senator Chuck Schumer and Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington have raised objections, citing potential foreign influence.

The Qatari government has acknowledged discussions but stated that no final decision has been made regarding the transfer. A spokesperson for Qatar mentioned that the matter remains under legal review by both nations’ defense departments.

Legal assessments from the White House and the Department of Justice reportedly support the legality of accepting the gift, arguing that since the aircraft would be donated to the Department of Defense and later to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation, it does not constitute a personal gift to Trump.

The aircraft would undergo retrofitting by U.S. defense contractor L3Harris to meet presidential requirements, including secure communications and other classified elements. However, it would have more limited capabilities compared to the existing Air Force One planes, lacking features like air-to-air refueling.

Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East, including a stop in Qatar, is expected to further discussions on the matter. However, the White House has stated that the gift will not be presented or accepted during this trip.

The situation continues to evolve, with ongoing debates about the legal and ethical implications of accepting such a significant gift from a foreign government.