Air Force Expects Qatar-Donated 747 as Interim Air Force One by Summer 2026
The Air Force expects a Qatar-donated Boeing 747, being refitted as a temporary Air Force One, delivered no later than summer 2026 amid ethics concerns.
Overview
The Air Force says a 13-year-old Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar will be refurbished as a VC-25 'bridge' aircraft to serve as an interim Air Force One by summer 2026.
Officials say modifications include security hardening and classified communications work; L3Harris and other contractors reportedly involved, while some steps may be limited to meet the delivery timeline.
Boeing's two new VC-25Bs have been delayed to 2028–2029 amid supply-chain and workforce issues, prompting the interim Qatar plane plan and criticism from President Trump and others.
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink estimated retrofit costs under $400 million and under a year; critics including Sen. Chris Murphy called cost and timeline estimates optimistic.
Lawmakers and observers raised ethics and security questions about accepting a foreign gift for presidential use, possible rushed modifications, and the plane’s short projected service before donation.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources present the story in a measured, fact-forward way, balancing official explanations (Air Force cost and timeline estimates) with criticisms (ethical concerns, congressional skepticism). They include technical context about VC-25B delays and logistics, cite named officials and critics, and avoid overtly loaded language or partisan advocacy.
Sources (4)
FAQ
The Air Force anticipates delivery of the VC-25 bridge aircraft no later than summer 2026.
Boeing's two new VC-25B aircraft have been delayed to mid-2028 due to supply-chain issues and workforce shortages, necessitating an interim solution.
Critics have raised ethics issues regarding a foreign gift for presidential use, potential security risks from rushed modifications, and optimistic cost and timeline estimates.
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink estimated the retrofit costs at less than $400 million.
The jet is an unconditional, bona fide gift to the U.S. Defense Department with no payment required from the U.S., made in good faith without connection to any governmental decisions.
History
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