Step inside President Trump's new Air Force One, a Boeing 747-8 once owned by the Qatari royal family, now controversially 'gifted' to replace the current presidential jumbo jet. Valued at around $400 million, this flying palace boasts bedroom suites with marble-clad en suite bathrooms, four lounges, a private office, and a grand staircase to the upper deck. But here's where it gets controversial: instead of the iconic 'soft blue and white' livery, Trump's new Air Force One will be painted in his preferred red, white, and blue color scheme. This 747-8 was customized for the Qatari government by Swiss firm AMAC Aerospace, with more than three years spent on the project under the direction of French interior designer Yves Pickardt. Pickardt took his design cues from the cabins of superyachts and luxury apartments, resulting in oversized couches and recliners, wood paneling, plush carpeting, leather couches, and plenty of shiny golden hues. The main entry features curved walls and an illuminated staircase to the upper deck, where you'll find the 'presidential suite' and a lounge area with bookshelves, a corner sofa, and a large flat-screen TV. The nose of the 747-8 serves as living quarters for the President, the First Lady, and members of their family, with a full-width master bedroom, a two-seat sofa, and an en suite bathroom with a private lavatory and fully-enclosed shower. Gold accents complement dark wood trims, but the overall effect is softened by a cream color palette. Further along is a blinged-up guest bedroom, a private lounge area with seating for nine of Trump's inner circle, and a 'private office' that's more of a meeting room. The US Air Force will spend an estimated $400 million to $1 billion to convert the ex-Qatari 747 to Air Force One spec, which will also see the 747-8 fitted with secure communications and anti-missile defenses. After entering service in the first half of 2026, ownership of the 747 is expected to be transferred to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation in 2029, allowing the plane to serve as Trump's private plane after the end of his second term in office.
