The emirate, once called “a funder of terrorism” by President Trump, has spent lavishly on overhauling its global reputation.

Despite flying for more than 35 years, the current pair of Air Force One jets remain one of the safest and secure aircraft in the world.

Schumer also called on Attorney General Pam Bondi to testify before Congress and answer a number of questions related to the potential gift.

Trump is in talks to accept a luxury Boeing 747 as a gift from the royal family of Qatar, a move CT Sen. Chris Murphy opposes.

The nation of Qatar offered the Trump administration a Boeing 747-8 for use as Air Force One. Trump called the plane a "gift," in a post on his social media site, Truth Social. A representative of the administration clarified that Qatar "has offered to donate a plane to the Department of Defense," not to Trump himself.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune and GOP firebrand senators are among those voicing discomfort with the deal.

For President Donald Trump, accepting a free Air Force One replacement from Qatar is a no-brainer WASHINGTON — For President Donald Trump , accepting a free Air Force One replacement from Qatar is a no-brainer.

In May 2025, the nation of Qatar gave the Department of Defense a Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet to be remodeled into a new Air Force One.