The cost to retrofit a Qatari luxury Boeing 747 jet to serve as the new Air Force One is expected to reach hundreds of millions of dollars, according to Air Force Secretary Troy Meink. The US military accepted the gifted 13-year-old plane from Qatar last month to transport President Donald Trump. The jet, known for its luxurious interior, requires extensive modifications to meet security and operational needs. Experts say these upgrades will include advanced security measures, improved communication systems to block potential spying, and defenses to protect against missile threats.

During a Congressional hearing on June 5, Meink estimated the retrofit cost to be less than $400 million. However, some Democratic lawmakers believe the expenses could surpass $1 billion. Meink responded that many of these costs, such as acquiring additional training platforms and spare parts, would have been incurred regardless of this specific aircraft.

Legal experts have expressed concerns about the laws governing foreign gifts to US officials, designed to prevent corruption and undue influence. Some Democrats have sought to prevent the handover of the plane. Qatar has dismissed these worries, and Trump himself downplayed ethical concerns, stating it would be “stupid” not to accept the 747-8 jet. The Air Force One program has experienced significant delays over the past decade. The delivery of two new 747-8 aircraft, initially scheduled earlier, is now expected in 2027—three years later than planned. President Trump toured the Qatari Boeing jet at a Florida airport in February.