A new presidential transport aircraft may make its debut as early as next year.
ABC News reported this week that the U.S. government has accepted the “unconditional donation” of a Boeing 747-8i belonging to the Qatari royal family.
New Air Force One Set for Early 2026 Debut, Trump Says
Qatari 747-8 is on track to replace older VC-25s.
Key Takeaways:
- The U.S. government has accepted an "unconditional donation" of a Boeing 747-8i from the Qatari royal family for use as a new presidential transport aircraft.
- President Trump expects this donated jet could be operational by February, significantly earlier than the previously contracted and delayed Air Force One replacement program.
- The aircraft will undergo extensive and costly retrofitting by L3Harris, including the installation of secure communication systems, missile defenses, aerial refueling capabilities, and protection against electromagnetic pulse attacks.
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