Boeing 747: Trump inspects upgraded Qatar-gift presidential jet ahead of Air Force One role

Donald Trump inspected an upgraded Boeing 747 aircraft at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Friday, as the jet nears entry into service for the Air Force One fleet. The aircraft, originally gifted by Qatar, has been extensively refitted for presidential use and presented in a new red, white, dark blue and gold livery.

Addressing an audience at the base, Trump described the aircraft as “one of the most luxurious planes ever built,” arguing that its modernisation was necessary to match foreign leaders’ upgraded state aircraft. He said the United States should not fall behind in presidential aviation standards.

The aircraft has been overhauled by defence contractor L3Harris Technologies and tested ahead of its planned use for presidential transport, aides, security personnel and press crews. Officials say it has been brought up to required standards for executive travel, although questions remain over the pace of its modification.

Critics have raised concerns about security and cost, with some lawmakers estimating the retrofit could exceed $1bn (£790m). The final price has not been officially disclosed. Experts have also questioned whether accelerated upgrades may have limited certain protective modifications.

The aircraft will serve as a temporary solution while Boeing completes two next-generation 747-8 presidential jets under a $3.9bn contract. That programme has experienced significant delays and is now expected to be delivered in 2028, several years behind schedule.

Trump also confirmed plans for the aircraft to lead a large flyover during Independence Day celebrations in Washington, describing it as a landmark public display of US air power.

Officials from the US Air Force said safety and security remained the top priority, insisting that all essential requirements had been reviewed despite the expedited delivery timeline.