Trump to keep flying on Qatari-gifted plane despite security concerns, report says

Donald Trump plans to keep flying on a Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar, even as questions remain over the aircraft’s security and its readiness to serve as Air Force One.

The Washington Post reported that Trump is expected to use the plane for upcoming domestic and international travel. The schedule includes a trip to Texas next week for a Republican Party mini-convention in Dallas, a campaign stop in Alaska and a visit to Ireland for the Irish Open at his golf course in Doonbeg.

The aircraft has already received a reported $400 million retrofit, but it still needs further upgrades before entering service. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said the plane needed to be “maxed out,” meaning it should be capable of traveling into any territory. The additional work is expected to take 60 days and begin in October.

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maxed out

The decision follows a security incident in Turkey in July. Trump was attending a NATO summit in Ankara when an Iranian assassination threat prompted a covert operation to move him from his older Air Force One to another military aircraft.

The use of the Qatari aircraft has also created political controversy because it represents a major gift from a foreign government. Boeing received a contract in 2017 to deliver two new 747 aircraft, but they have not entered service. The replacement planes remain delayed, leaving the Qatari aircraft as the expected option for Trump’s upcoming trips.

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We maintain a consistent posture that ensures a safe, secure, and reliable capability for the President of the United States and routinely evolve the capability as required to maintain that posture.