Qatar Preparing to Gift Trump the “Flying Palace” Jet Worth Nearly $400 Million
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A luxurious Boeing 747-8 jet has taken center stage in U.S. media and political circles following reports that the State of Qatar intends to present it as a gift to former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The aircraft, famously dubbed the “Flying Palace,” previously belonged to the Qatari royal family and was outfitted to the highest standards, making it the world’s first VIP-configured version of this model. The jet features lavish gold-plated decor, bedrooms, and reception lounges for high-level guests.
Although manufactured in 2012, the aircraft was taken out of service in 2023. In April 2025, it was transferred to L3Harris Technologies in the U.S. state of Texas, where it reportedly began undergoing modifications to suit presidential use, according to American media outlets.
The aircraft is valued at approximately $400 million, though no official confirmation has been provided regarding its final configuration post-modifications. Circulating images showed a similar plane from the “Qatar Amiri Flight” fleet, sparking questions about the authenticity of the gifting reports.
While Qatari authorities have officially denied the delivery of the aircraft—stating that “discussions remain at the ministerial level only”—the matter has ignited widespread controversy within American political spheres. The U.S. Constitution prohibits officials from accepting gifts from foreign states without congressional approval.
Some media reports have suggested that the jet may first be handed over to the U.S. Air Force before eventually being added to the Trump Presidential Library’s assets—a move interpreted as an attempt to circumvent legal restrictions on foreign gifts.
Questions remain as to whether the aircraft will indeed be presented to Trump during his anticipated visit to Doha.
