Trump Inaugurates Qatar-Gifted Presidential Jet Amid Criticism and Low Event Attendance

On Wednesday evening, former U.S. President Donald Trump took the inaugural flight of the newly acquired presidential aircraft, a Boeing 747-8 "Jumbo" gifted by Qatar. The 14-year-old luxury plane, valued at approximately $400 million and nicknamed the "Flying Palace," was previously used by Qatari rulers. Trump flew to North Dakota to inaugurate the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, expressing excitement about the flight and gratitude to Qatar for the "very nice" gift.

The gift sparked controversy due to legal and security concerns and suspicions of Qatar attempting to influence the U.S. president, especially given close business ties between Trump associates and Doha. Despite criticism, Trump defended accepting the plane, citing delays and high costs in Boeing's ongoing project to retrofit two other 747s as new Air Force One jets. The Qatar plane underwent a costly 10-month retrofit costing around $400 million, including advanced security and communication systems, removal of Arabic signage, and replacement of Qatari artwork with American patriotic themes. The exterior was repainted in U.S. flag colors with gold accents favored by Trump.

Trump’s visit to North Dakota was part of the 250th U.S. independence celebrations, which will peak on July 4 with a massive fireworks display in Washington, D.C. However, some related events have faced challenges, including low attendance at the "Great American State Fair" in Washington. Several performers withdrew over political concerns, leading Trump to convert the opening concert into a political rally with himself as the main speaker. Reports revealed Trump became "furious" after seeing aerial photos showing sparse crowds at the rally, which contrasted with his usual boasts of large audiences.

White House insiders blamed poor promotion for the low turnout and are now preparing for a larger audience at Trump’s July 4 speech. Trump himself urged supporters to attend, warning that empty seats would fuel negative media coverage. The Qatar plane’s future remains uncertain; initially intended for Trump’s presidential library, it was transferred to Pentagon ownership after the donation. It is expected to serve Trump until Boeing’s new Air Force One jets enter service in about two years.