Why Boeing Should Reject Qatari 747-8 as Air Force One Replacement
The Department of Defense, on behalf of former President Donald Trump, has accepted a $400 million luxury Boeing 747-8 from Qatar, hoping to convert it into the next Air Force One. However, serious ethical and security concerns surround the move. The plane’s acceptance could violate the Constitution’s foreign emoluments clause, raising questions about foreign influence over U.S. leadership.
Beyond ethics, experts say the Qatari jet is unsuitable for Air Force One. Boeing, already five years late and billions over budget on its original Air Force One contract, should make it clear that retrofitting this aircraft would cost taxpayers even more and likely delay delivery further.
Retired Gen. Barry McCaffrey warned the plane could contain hundreds of security vulnerabilities, making it unsafe for presidential use. Republican lawmakers echoed these concerns. Sen. Rick Scott questioned whether retrofitting the plane for secure military communications and in-flight refueling would even be feasible.
Qatar has reportedly tried to sell the jet since 2020, casting doubt on its value. Despite Trump touting its luxury, the aircraft predates the two 747-8s already contracted for Air Force One, making it less advanced.
The most significant cost of Air Force One lies not in the aircraft itself, but in outfitting it with advanced defense and communication systems. Retrofitting the Qatari jet could cost over $1 billion.
While the decision to accept the jet rests with the president, Boeing must complete the original contract and deliver the two secured, customized Air Force One aircraft already in production.
Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=air+force+one, https://airguide.info/?s=boeing+747-8
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, seattletimes.com