Trump takes first flight on Qatari-gifted presidential aircraft

US President Donald Trump has taken his first flight aboard a newly introduced presidential aircraft, gifted by the government of Qatar, as delays continue in the delivery of the next-generation jets being built by Boeing.

The aircraft, serving temporarily as Air Force One, transported the president to North Dakota on July 1 for events marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, Caliber.Az reports citing US media.

Trump expressed enthusiasm about the new aircraft and its origin, stating that the United States “couldn’t build a plane like this.”

The jet is intended as a stopgap solution until Boeing completes two new purpose-built presidential aircraft, which are now expected to be delivered in about two years following multiple delays and cost overruns.

Valued at an estimated $400 million and described by the White House as an "unconditional" gift, the aircraft has raised legal, ethical, and national security questions since it was received by the US president in May 2025.

The plane features a redesigned exterior in white, red, and navy blue, along with modifications that bring it closer in style to Trump’s personal aircraft.

“They just completed it. They made it appropriate for a president, which means the security and all of the different bells and whistles they put on. Very complex now, but it’s really quite something,” Trump told reporters ahead of boarding the aircraft.

White House officials said the aircraft is planned to eventually be transferred to Trump’s presidential library after he leaves office. It was formally gifted to the Pentagon.

By Nazrin Sadigova