US President Donald Trump took his first flight on a newly refurbished Air Force One on 1/7, a luxury jet gifted by Qatar and converted for presidential use. "They just finished it. They converted the aircraft to presidential specifications, encompassing security systems and all specialized equipment. It was a complex process, but the result is impressive," Trump told reporters before flying to North Dakota.

He expressed his excitement for the maiden flight, stating, "I am truly excited about the first flight. No one has ever seen anything like this."

President Donald Trump boards the new Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews on 1/7. Photo: AP

The gift of the 400 million USD aircraft from Qatar, a wealthy Gulf nation mediating in US-Iran negotiations, raised concerns about ethics, constitutionality, and security. Trump, however, dismissed suggestions that the gift was inappropriate. He stated that the cost of refurbishing the Qatar-donated plane was "small" compared to what US taxpayers would have to spend otherwise. "Honestly, we couldn't build a plane like this because we wouldn't be willing to spend the necessary money. They spent a significant amount," Trump added.

The new aircraft departs from the traditional sky blue paint scheme, featuring navy blue combined with red and yellow stripes. Its cabin boasts premium velvet carpets, leather seats that recline flat into beds, and luxurious wood paneling.

Air Force One takes off from Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on 1/7. Photo: AP

This aircraft serves as a temporary solution until Boeing delivers two new Air Force One planes previously ordered. These are expected within the next two years, following repeated project delays and cost overruns.

The inaugural flight transported Trump to an event at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in North Dakota, part of activities celebrating the 250th anniversary of US Independence Day.

Thanh Tam (According to AFP, Reuters, The Spokesman Review)