Boeing's "flying palace" gift from Qatar sparks U.S. debate
The U.S. Department of Defense has announced its acceptance of a Boeing 747 aircraft gifted by Qatar for transporting the President of the United States. The luxuriously equipped aircraft, dubbed the "flying palace," will be specially prepared to serve as Air Force One.
This acceptance of the aircraft, valued at approximately $400 million, was announced on Wednesday by Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell.
"The secretary of defense has accepted a Boeing 747 from Qatar in accordance with all federal rules and regulations. The Department of Defense will work to ensure proper security measures and functional-mission requirements are considered for an aircraft used to transport the president of the United States," stated Parnell.
Although the statement did not specify it, President Donald Trump had earlier suggested that the aircraft might be handed over to the foundation for his presidential library after his current term. According to ABC News, this is likely the most expensive gift from a foreign government in U.S. history.
During a meeting at the White House with the President of South Africa, when asked about the aircraft, Trump remarked that it is a "wonderful thing" and praised Qatar for their "very nice gesture" by gifting the Jumbo Jet to the U.S. Air Force. He noted that America needs a new presidential aircraft, but Boeing is delayed with the order for two modified 747s.
The President had already viewed the aircraft, known as the "flying palace," back in February during a visit to Florida and expressed his frustration at Boeing's delays.
A storm over the gift from Qatar
The issue, however, raises significant legal and security concerns. The Constitution prohibits accepting gifts from foreign states without Congress' consent, and the aircraft will require major modifications to be suitable for presidential transport and must be vetted by intelligence services.
On Wednesday, Jack Reed, the Vice Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and a Democrat, called on the Pentagon's Inspector General to launch an investigation into what he characterized as a brazen attempt to circumvent constitutional restrictions. Specifically, he referred to concerns over the acceptance of personal gifts from foreign governments without the required approval from Congress. He also pointed out that modifying the aircraft could take years. Several Republican congressmen and senators have previously voiced unease and concern about this matter.
Senator Josh Hawley told NPR that he would prefer the presidential aircraft to be purchased in America and commented that if Qatar wants to curry favour with Washington, it should distance itself from the Islamist groups it supports. Senator Ted Cruz stated that the gift raises significant issues related to espionage and surveillance, and Senate Republican leader John Thune announced that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
