The inside story of Trump’s search for a new Air Force One

Qatar had been trying to sell off a luxury jet for years, with no luck.

View in browser|nytimes.com May 20, 2025 Weeks of secret coordination between Washington and Doha preceded the Trump administration's decision to accept a free luxury Boeing 747-8 from Qatar to serve as Air Force One. "I believe that we should have the most impressive plane," President Trump said. Al Drago for The New York Times Read our report. → Sign up for the Evening newsletter. Catch up on the biggest news, and wind down to end your day. Get it in your inbox If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here. Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times. To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018