Qatar's Gifted Boeing 747-8 Enters Cosmetic Upgrade Period

The Qatar-donated Boeing 747-8, known as Bridge Air Force One, has been grounded for cosmetic upgrades. The aircraft was donated by the royal family of Qatar and had been in service since July 1. According to an administration source, the aircraft is currently undergoing 'cosmetic upgrades' to its interior.

The White House has not confirmed whether the work includes security enhancements previously promised. The President had stated last month that the aircraft would be sent away in October to be 'maxed out,' with increased security measures and other improvements expected to take about 60 days.

The $400 million Qatari gift was first announced as entering a upgrade period, but it is unclear when this actually occurred. The older VC-25A Air Force One has been brought back into service for domestic trips after the Bridge aircraft disappeared from recent presidential travel.