‘Excited’ Trump inaugurates Qatar-gifted Air Force One with first flight

President Donald Trump expressed his thrill at taking the inaugural flight aboard a new Air Force One, a luxury jet gifted by Qatar. Thanking the Gulf nation, Trump described the aircraft as unparalleled, stating, "Nobody’s ever seen anything like it." The heavily modified Boeing 747-8, originally manufactured in the US, has been refitted with advanced security features and amenities befitting a president.

“

To be honest with you, I’m excited about the first flight. Nobody’s ever seen anything like it.

The flight occurred ahead of Trump's trip to North Dakota for events marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. The president highlighted the complex modifications made to the plane, emphasizing its unique capabilities. He suggested that the US might not have undertaken such an extensive and costly project itself.

“

They just completed it. They made it appropriate for a president, that means the security and all of the different bells and whistles they put on. Very complex stuff, but it’s really quite something.

However, the gifting of the multi-million dollar aircraft by Qatar has drawn criticism. Concerns have been raised regarding ethical implications, constitutional questions, and security vulnerabilities associated with accepting such a significant donation from a foreign power. Qatar, also a mediator in US-Iran talks, donated the jet last year.

“

Frankly, we couldn’t build a plane like this because we wouldn’t be willing to spend the kind of money necessary. They spent top dollars.

Trump dismissed ethical concerns, asserting that the cost to US taxpayers for adapting the Qatari jet was minimal compared to building a similar aircraft domestically. He explained that the Emir of Qatar offered the plane as a contribution to the country. The refurbished jet sports a new color scheme preferred by Trump, featuring a navy-blue belly with red and gold stripes, replacing the traditional light blue hull. Inside, it boasts plush carpets, lie-flat seats, wood paneling, and a presidential seal on the seat belts.

“

You can do two things: You can low-key it, or you can show it.