Trump Unveils Qatari-Gifted Jet as Temporary Air Force One

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Washington: US President Donald Trump on Friday unveiled a Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar that will serve as a temporary Air Force One until new presidential aircraft are delivered in 2027 and 2028.

The aircraft, designated VC-25B, was presented at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland and will replace one of the ageing Boeing 747s that has been used to transport US presidents for more than three decades.

The $400 million jet has sparked political criticism, while the cost of converting it for presidential use is estimated at about $1 billion. Trump defended the arrangement, saying it would be unwise to reject the offer, while defence officials said the transfer complied with federal regulations.

Trump said the aircraft would help the US keep pace with newer planes used by foreign leaders. The jet will operate alongside the remaining presidential Boeing 747 until the next-generation Air Force One fleet enters service.