Qatar Gifts Donald Trump a ₹3400 Crore Boeing 747-8 Jet; Delivery Delayed Until 2029 Due to Security Concerns.
Washington/Doha. Former US President Donald Trump has recently received a lavish gift from the Qatari government: a high-tech Boeing 747-8 aircraft, nicknamed the 'Flying Palace,' valued at over $400 million (approximately ₹3400 crore). However, Trump will not be able to fly it before 2029.
Why Did Qatar Gift Trump This Luxury Jet?
Following a recent visit by Donald Trump to Qatar, significant business deals were struck between the US and Qatar, including a substantial order for Boeing aircraft from Qatar Airways. It was during this visit that Trump was gifted the Boeing 747-8.
Features of the Aircraft
This jet is the largest and most advanced model in the Boeing 747 series, equipped with four GEnx-2B turbofan engines capable of long-haul flights. The interior boasts a luxurious master bedroom, high-tech conference room, dining area, VIP lounge, and modern bathrooms. Advanced defense features, including infrared jammers, are also included for enhanced security.
Delivery Delayed Until 2029
According to reports from The Times and The New York Times, the aircraft cannot be delivered to the US immediately. Security clearances, technical inspections, and structural modifications make delivery before 2027 impossible. Experts believe that converting this luxury jet to meet the standards of Air Force One could take until at least 2029.
High Cost of Converting to Presidential Aircraft
Aerospace engineers and former Pentagon officials state that the aircraft will require significant upgrades to meet military standards. This includes adding missile defense systems, electromagnetic pulse (EMP) shielding, encrypted communication systems, and a medical emergency unit. The entire process is estimated to cost approximately $1 billion (₹8,000 crore).
Why Doesn't the US Accept Presidential Aircraft from Foreign Countries?
The New York Times report also highlights that US security agencies do not accept presidential aircraft from foreign countries, primarily due to national security concerns. A former Air Force officer stated, "You don't take a presidential aircraft from a foreign nation because you have to completely check it out and rebuild it."
