Qatar Unveils New Replacement for Air Force One

On Friday, US President Donald Trump announced the arrival of a new Air Force One aircraft, a gift from Qatar that he described as a “flying White House.”

Speaking inside the aircraft’s hangar, Trump called the jet “the world’s most luxurious plane” and thanked the Gulf emirate for its generosity.

The aircraft, valued at several hundred million dollars, has sparked debate over ethical, constitutional and security implications.

Trump has previously said it would be “stupid” to decline the gift, and he has also suggested that the plane would eventually be donated to his presidential library.

During the unveiling at Joint Base Andrews, just outside Washington, Trump praised the craftsmanship that transformed the jet into a “flying White House” with unprecedented luxury. He highlighted the quality of the woods, materials and engines, and thanked the emir of Qatar.

A journalist who was allowed to tour the interior reported that the cabin features leather seats, plush carpeting, wooden paneling, and walls painted in tan and light brown with gold accents.

Among the patriotic décor is a framed print of a duck swimming in the Reflecting Pool, a Washington landmark that Trump has sought to beautify.

Trump repeatedly noted the aircraft’s size and engine power, claiming it “flies further and faster than any Air Force One.” He said the new jet would likely take part in a flyover for the 250th US Independence Day celebrations on July 4.

The president has been focused on replacing the current fleet of Boeing 747s, which have been in service since the 1990s, since his first term.

On Thursday, White House officials retired one of the two heavily modified 747s that have carried US presidents for decades, fueling speculation that the new jet would be unveiled soon.

The retired aircraft had a blue and white exterior, while the new jet sports a navy blue underside, a red stripe and a white upper body.

When a US president is aboard, the aircraft officially takes the call sign Air Force One.

The US government has contracted Boeing to deliver two new 747‑8 aircraft for the presidential fleet, but the program has faced delays and cost overruns.

AFP

The post Qatar-gifted Air Force One replacement unveiled appeared first on Vanguard News.