President Donald Trump has offered the first look inside his new $400 million Air Force One, a luxury Boeing 747-8 gifted by Qatar and converted for presidential use.
The aircraft was unveiled at Joint Base Andrews after months of modifications designed to prepare it for service as an interim presidential jet.
Inside, the plane looks far more like a luxury private aircraft than a traditional government plane. Reports described an interior filled with tan, light brown and gold tones, polished wood paneling, high-end cabinetry and presidential details such as the seal on the seat belts.
Trump appeared pleased with the aircraft, joking about its “new plane smell” and drawing attention to the amount of gold throughout the cabin.
The jet also features Trump’s preferred exterior color scheme, replacing the classic light blue-and-white Air Force One look with a darker red, white, navy and gold design.
The plane was originally owned by Qatar and has been described as one of the world’s most luxurious aircraft. It includes high-end seating, private areas and an interior designed for comfort, status and long-haul travel.
But before it can fully serve as Air Force One, the aircraft must meet strict presidential standards. The retrofitting process includes secure communications, defensive systems, classified security upgrades and other changes needed for a flying White House.
The aircraft is expected to serve as a temporary replacement while Boeing continues work on two official new Air Force One planes. That separate program has faced years of delays and cost overruns.
Trump has defended accepting the plane, saying the United States needed a modern aircraft while waiting for Boeing’s delayed replacements.
Critics, however, say the plane raises major ethics and security questions. They argue that accepting a luxury aircraft from a foreign government creates concerns about influence, transparency and taxpayer costs.
Although the aircraft itself was gifted by Qatar, the cost of converting it for presidential use has not been fully disclosed. Some estimates suggest the retrofit could cost hundreds of millions of dollars or even more than $1 billion.
Supporters say the plane gives the U.S. president a newer and more modern aircraft immediately. Critics say the “free” gift may still come with a huge price tag.
The new Air Force One is expected to make a major public appearance during a Fourth of July flyover over Washington, D.C.
For Trump, the aircraft is a symbol of power, luxury and modernization. For his opponents, it is another flashpoint in the debate over foreign gifts, presidential ethics and the true cost of government prestige.
