20.06.2026 02:10
The Boeing 747-8, shown as one of the world's most expensive state aircraft, is now in the USA. The giant plane, gifted to Donald Trump by Qatar and to be used as a temporary Air Force One, was introduced at a ceremony in Maryland. While moments of Trump signing the plane's mechanical panel trended, the cost and luxury features of the approximately $400 million aircraft sparked renewed debate.
U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled the Boeing 747-8, gifted by Qatar, which will serve as the next-generation presidential aircraft. Speaking at an event held at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, Trump described the plane as "the most luxurious aircraft in the world" and also signed its mechanical panel.
THE 400 MILLION DOLLAR "FLYING PALACE"
The Boeing 747-8 VIP aircraft, previously used by the Qatar Royal Family, is reported to have a market value of approximately 400 million dollars. After being used for years in the official travels of the Qatari Emir, it was transferred to the U.S. administration.
IT INCLUDES BEDROOMS AND PRIVATE SALONS
The 747-8 VIP version stands out with its master bedroom, guest rooms, meeting halls, study offices, luxury lounges, numerous bathrooms, and private living sections. The plane is regarded as one of the most luxurious state aircraft in the world.
THE REAL COST IS IN THE CONVERSION
Although the aircraft was gifted, the costs of the work to bring it up to Air Force One standards are reported to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. While some sources claim the modernization cost has exceeded 900 million dollars, secure news sources assess that this figure could approach 1 billion dollars. The aircraft features advanced secure communication systems, missile defense systems, and presidential security infrastructure.
INTERIM SOLUTION TO BOEING'S DELAYED PROJECT
The Trump administration will use this aircraft as a temporary solution, named "VC-25B Bridge," due to the aging of the current Air Force One fleet and delays in Boeing's new presidential aircraft project. The total cost of Boeing's new Air Force One project is reported to be approximately 3.9 billion dollars, with delivery delayed until 2028.
TURKEY COULD BE ONE OF THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL STOPS
During the unveiling, Trump announced that the new aircraft could be used for a trip to Turkey for the NATO Summit and later for a conference to be held in China. The plane is expected to officially begin active service in the presidential fleet in the coming weeks.