President Trump has confirmed reports that the royal family of Qatar may soon give him a $400 million luxury 747 plane known as the “flying palace” to replace Air Force One. ABC News reports the plane may be the most valuable gift ever given to the United States from a foreign government. According to multiple press reports, the plane would be initially given to the Air Force, which will need to refurbish the plane. The plane will later be donated to President Trump’s presidential library, meaning Trump could continue using the plane after leaving office.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer denounced the gift, writing on social media, “Nothing says “America First’ like Air Force One, brought to you by Qatar. It’s not just bribery, it’s premium foreign influence with extra legroom.” Reports of the deal come as President Trump prepares to head to the Middle East to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.