The U.S. Air Force has confirmed the delivery of a refurbished Boeing 747-style jet, donated by Qatar, for presidential airlift use is anticipated by summer 2026.
The aircraft, donated by the royal family of Qatar last spring, will serve as a VC-25 bridge aircraft. Its introduction aims to support the presidential mission, potentially replacing or supplementing two 35-year-old jets currently serving as Air Force One.
Following the donation, the Pentagon was tasked with retrofitting the plane to meet Air Force One specifications, including security and device checks, before it could enter service.
The existing Air Force One planes have faced recent issues, including a "minor electrical issue" that prompted a presidential aircraft change during a recent trip. A broader project to replace the aging planes has experienced delays, with new aircraft deliveries currently scheduled for 2027 and 2028.
The donation has drawn criticism from some congressional Democrats and watchdog groups, who have expressed ethical concerns regarding a U.S. president accepting a high-value gift from a foreign country. The cost of retrofitting the donated plane has also been questioned.
Donald Trump has defended the decision to accept the gift, characterizing it as a positive gesture and a contribution to the Defense Department.