Trump Chooses Qatar-Donated Plane for Ireland Trip Despite Security Concerns

US President Donald Trump plans to use a Boeing 747-8 donated by Qatar for an upcoming visit to Ireland, despite ongoing concerns about the aircraft's defensive capabilities. The $400 million aircraft has already been used as Air Force One on domestic flights and transported Trump to Türkiye in July.

During that trip, Trump left the country aboard another aircraft due to security concerns, sources told CNN. When asked about the 747-8, Trump acknowledged that more work is required before it can operate in all threat environments. He stated that the plane already has extensive equipment but needs around 60 days to be 'maxed out'.

The White House maintains that the aircraft is safe for travel to non-hostile countries like Ireland, and additional security modifications are scheduled to begin in October.