The Qatari government did not intend to gift former U.S. President Donald Trump the luxurious Boeing 747-8, as some reports previously suggested. Aviation brokers involved in the aircraft’s sale clarified the details of the case, reports the Baltimore Chronicle with reference CNN.
The unique Boeing 747-8, known as the “Palace in the Sky,” was custom-built for a member of Qatar’s royal family but was never put into regular service. The aircraft’s price exceeded $400 million. Brokers confirmed the plane was kept in pristine condition and had not been flown regularly.
According to the company responsible for the aircraft’s sale, the Boeing was officially put on the market in 2023 through a broker based in Switzerland. One of the interested buyers was reportedly connected to Trump’s business circle. Negotiations with this party were strictly commercial.
Claims that Qatar gifted the plane to Trump emerged after media reports alleged the politician had received the luxury aircraft, equipped with bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, and lounges of the highest comfort. However, sources close to the deal emphasized that the plane was offered for sale, not given as a gift.
Sellers stressed that VIP aircraft transactions follow strict commercial protocols, and the idea of gifting the plane was never considered. The potential buyer ultimately did not finalize the purchase.
The broker’s statement came in response to media speculation that triggered sensational headlines in the U.S. The aircraft remains available for purchase on the secondary market.
Earlier we wrote that Qatar Airways signs record $96 billion deal with Boeing.