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News in English (USA) / 02.05.2026 / 09:00

Qatari-Gifted Air Force One Set for Summer Debut Following Extensive Modifications

The U.S. Air Force has confirmed that a Boeing 747-8, gifted by Qatar to former President Trump, has completed its flight testing and will be ready for use as Air Force One this summer. The aircraft underwent a $400 million overhaul and will feature a notably opulent interior, retaining the luxurious style expected of presidential travel. Despite the excitement surrounding the impending debut, challenges remain, with reports indicating the overall Air Force One replacement program is facing significant delays and cost overruns, surpassing $700 million. The modifications to the Qatari-donated jet included various complex changes to meet the specifications of a presidential aircraft, and it is now fully equipped and prepared for its official role.
af.mil, The Daily Beast, WSJ, Air & Space Forces Magazine, the-independent.com, The War Zone, Bloomberg.com, Yahoo, Aviation Week, The Copenhagen Post