Following yesterday’s reports that Qatar’s royal family plans to “gift” a $400 million Boeing 747-8 to the U.S. Department of Defense for use as Air Force One until the new VC-25B aircraft are delivered in 2027, backlash has erupted from both sides of the political spectrum. Critics are raising concerns about the optics and implications of accepting such a gift from Qatar, a country with longstanding ties to groups like Hamas and other militant organizations in the Middle East.

Beyond geopolitical concerns, security experts have also flagged the logistical challenges involved. Upgrading and thoroughly vetting the plane to meet Air Force One’s stringent security standards could cost hundreds of millions—an investment for an aircraft that would likely be retired in just a few years.

President Trump brushed off the criticism, saying it would be “stupid” not to accept the offer. However, critics have likened the gift to a bribe. The administration has stated that after Trump’s term ends in 2028, the aircraft would be transferred to his presidential library—prompting additional scrutiny over whether he could retain access to the plane post-presidency.