The United States has accepted a Boeing 747-8 aircraft gifted by the government of Qatar.

The plane, which was originally intended for Qatar’s use, is destined to join the fleet that supports the US Air Force One operations.

This gift reduces the overall cost of upgrading the presidential air fleet as part of a long-planned program.

The US Air Force is currently in the process of converting two existing 747-8 aircraft to serve as the next generation of Air Force One planes, replacing the current aging fleet.

The newly acquired plane is expected to be used as a source of spare parts for the existing Air Force One fleet or incorporated into the upgrade plans.

The acceptance of the plane was made possible through intergovernmental agreements and cooperation between the US and Qatar.

The exact terms of the gift, including any specific agreements surrounding its use, remain partially undisclosed.

The US Air Force and the government are working on adapting the plane and determining its best utilization to support presidential travel.

This acquisition is not expected to alter the timeline for the completion of the next generation Air Force One aircraft, as the primary goal is to reduce costs and maintain the existing planes more efficiently.

The addition of this plane reinforces the close ties between the United States and Qatar.