WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Air Force unveiled a Boeing 747-8 aircraft designated as the new Air Force One. The aircraft was accepted as a gift from the government of Qatar.

The aircraft, valued at $400 million, is currently stationed at Joint Base Andrews. The Air Force stated that the aircraft would begin commissioning flights before entering active service to transport the president. It also noted that operational readiness was prioritized during retrofitting, with minimal changes to the interior layout.

The Air Force said, "Fresh from receiving its new red, white, and blue livery and the final government modifications, the aircraft has entered service to provide critical, secure continuity for the commander in chief."

Donald Trump, former President of the United States, rejected claims that accepting a military aircraft from a foreign government created a conflict of interest or security vulnerability. "Why should our military, and therefore our taxpayers, be forced to pay hundreds of millions of Dollars when they can get it for FREE from a country that wants to reward us for a job well done? Only a FOOL would not accept this gift on behalf of our Country." Trump posted. The administration spent one year modifying the aircraft for presidential operations.

Trump stated that the gifted aircraft would remain in service until new Boeing aircraft are delivered to the Air Force in 2028. He stated the gifted aircraft would eventually be donated to his future presidential library as an exhibit. The gifted aircraft is a Boeing VC-25 model, matching the designation of the retiring presidential aircraft.

Trump returned from a European diplomatic trip aboard a Boeing 747-2, which has served as Air Force One for more than 30 years. Presidential spokesperson Steven Cheung posted farewell messages regarding the retiring aircraft on social media. "Well done, good and faithful servant. The last ride." Cheung wrote. Monica Crowley, who served as the U.S. chief of protocol, traveled aboard the retiring aircraft. "It wasn't the most modern plane, but it was cozy. And every flight with President Trump was incredibly special. Farewell and thank you." Crowley said. An Air Force spokesperson said, "The retired aircraft will soon join the active executive airlift fleet, which is used by senior members of the government for official travel."

No independent assessment of U.S. Air Force’s claims was available.