WASHINGTON (CP) – The Trump administration is examining Qatar’s offer to donate a Boeing 747-8 luxury aircraft to the Defense Department, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt assuring on Monday that any acceptance would comply with all legal requirements amid criticism from Democrats and government ethics advocates who question the constitutionality of such a valuable gift.
“The Qatari government has graciously offered to donate a plane to the Department of Defense. The legal details of that are still being worked out,” Leavitt said during a Fox News interview Monday. “Any donation to this government is always done in full compliance with the law, and we commit ourselves to the utmost transparency, and we will continue to do that.” When asked if the administration was concerned about Qatar expecting something in return, Leavitt dismissed the possibility, stating, “Absolutely not. Because they know President Trump, and they know he only works with the interests of the American public in mind.”
A source briefed on the matter revealed Sunday that the aircraft, estimated to cost approximately $400 million as a new commercial plane, would be outfitted to serve as Air Force One during Trump’s presidency before eventually being donated to his presidential library after he leaves office. The donation would rank among the most valuable gifts ever received by the U.S. government, prompting concerns from Democrats and ethics watchdogs who argue that accepting such a gift could create conflicts of interest or violate constitutional provisions.
The consideration of Qatar’s offer comes as President Trump prepares to visit the Gulf nation during his Middle East tour this week. Qatar has played a key diplomatic role in negotiations between Israel and Hamas, highlighting its strategic importance in the region. The luxury Boeing 747-8, significantly larger and more advanced than older 747 models, would require extensive security and communication modifications before it could serve as the presidential aircraft, though specific details about the timeline or implementation process have not been disclosed by the White House.