US accepts Qatari 747-8I BBJ for presidential transport

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^{Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, May 21st 2025 at 16:01 GMT by Flightglobal}

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has accepted a Boeing 747-8I Boeing Business Jet from Qatar to serve as Air Force One, a mission that will require extensive modifications.

The United States has accepted a Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental aircraft, specifically a BBJ (Boeing Business Jet) variant, from Qatar for use as a presidential transport. This aircraft, previously operated by Qatar Amiri Flight, was handed over to the US in September 2023. The jet, which has been repainted in a new livery, will serve as a backup to the existing fleet of presidential aircraft, including the well-known Air Force One. The acquisition of this 747-8i BBJ enhances the US presidential transport capabilities, providing additional options for secure and reliable travel for the President and other high-ranking officials.

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[ https://www.flightglobal.com/aerospace/us-accepts-qatari-747-8i-bbj-for-presidential-transport/163075.article ]