Trump's Qatari 747 may require fighter escorts and upgrades to serve as Air Force One

Security experts warn the gifted Boeing 747 could be limited to domestic flights without costly enhancements.
Text: Óscar Ontañón Docal
Published 2025-05-16

The latest news on the United States. We now know that the Boeing 747 offered to President Trump by Qatar could need fighter jet escorts and be confined to domestic flights unless extensive and expensive security enhancements are implemented.


You might be interested: Trump weighs accepting Qatari 747 as future Air Force One.


Aviation specialists highlight that even with improvements, the plane may lack the defensive systems of a traditional Air Force One. Trump could waive some safety protocols, but concerns remain about the aircraft's ability to protect the president in high-risk scenarios.

WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 16, 2025: Boeing 747 formerly owned by Qatar's royal family on tarmac at Palm Beach International Airport. US President Donald Trump toured plane on February 15th

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