US begins preparing Qatari jet to be used as Air Force One

The US government has begun preparing a Qatari jet to be used as a new Air Force One. The aircraft, valued at $400 million, is being donated by Qatar as an "unconditional gift," with the US government responsible for any retrofitting costs. The move is part of the ongoing effort to replace the current Air Force One fleet, which has been in service for decades. The new jet will undergo modifications to ensure it meets the security and communication requirements for the presidential aircraft. The decision to accept the Qatari jet as a donation is seen as a cost-saving measure for the US government, as the replacement of the existing Air Force One fleet was expected to be a significant financial burden. The transition to the new aircraft is expected to take several years, as the necessary modifications and testing will need to be completed before the jet can be officially designated as Air Force One.