Washington, 20 June (H.S.):
US President Donald Trump on Friday unveiled a new presidential aircraft gifted by Qatar, describing it as the “world’s most luxurious plane” and a “flying White House,” while defending the controversial transfer amid continuing scrutiny over ethics, security and constitutional concerns.
The aircraft was presented during a ceremony at Joint Base Andrews near Washington, where Trump praised Qatar for providing the jet and commended the engineers and technicians who transformed it into a state-of-the-art presidential aircraft.
Addressing military personnel and officials on Friday, Trump said the aircraft had been redesigned with exceptional craftsmanship, featuring premium materials, advanced engineering and upgraded interiors that, according to him, surpass the standards of any previous presidential aircraft.
He thanked Qatar’s Emir for the gift, saying the plane symbolised strong ties between the two countries. Trump also reiterated his earlier position that rejecting the aircraft would have been unwise, despite criticism from political opponents and ethics experts.
The aircraft, reportedly valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, has attracted widespread debate in the United States. Critics have questioned whether accepting such an expensive gift from a foreign government complies with constitutional provisions governing gifts to public officials. Security specialists have also raised concerns about the extensive inspections and modifications required before the aircraft can safely transport the US president.
Journalists who toured the aircraft reported that its interior includes leather seating, plush carpeting, wood-panelled walls and gold-toned finishes, giving it the appearance of a luxury executive residence. Patriotic artwork and custom-designed interiors further distinguish the aircraft from its predecessor.
Trump also announced on Friday that the aircraft is expected to participate in a ceremonial flyover during the United States' 250th Independence Day celebrations on July 4.
The unveiling comes as the United States continues work on two new Boeing 747-8 aircraft intended to replace the ageing presidential fleet. The programme has faced years of delays and significant cost overruns, prompting frustration within successive administrations.
One of the long-serving presidential aircraft was formally retired on Thursday, paving the way for the introduction of the Qatar-donated jet. Unlike the previous blue-and-white colour scheme, the new aircraft features a navy-blue underside, a bold red stripe and a white upper fuselage.
As with all aircraft carrying the sitting US president, the jet will use the official call sign Air Force One whenever the president is on board.
The unveiling marks one of the most closely watched developments involving the US presidential fleet, reflecting both Trump's long-standing ambition to modernise Air Force One and the continuing political debate surrounding Qatar's unprecedented gift.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
