US President Donald Trump has unveiled a new temporary Air Force One aircraft, a Qatar-gifted Boeing 747, at a hangar ceremony a day after one of the presidential fleet’s long-serving jets was formally retired.

The aircraft, designated VC-25B and painted in red, white, dark blue and gold livery, was presented as a “bridge” plane until two delayed, next-generation presidential jets are delivered in 2027 and 2028.

White House officials confirmed the aircraft was gifted by the Gulf state of Qatar, prompting political criticism over its estimated $400 million value, which far exceeds limits on unsolicited gifts under federal ethics rules.

The Pentagon said the aircraft was accepted “in accordance with all federal rules and regulations.”

Trump dismissed the criticism, calling it “stupid” to refuse the offer.

The conversion of the aircraft for presidential use is estimated to cost around $1 billion, and officials said it would temporarily replace ageing Boeing 747s that have served since 1990.

The cost of the planned new presidential aircraft has reportedly risen from $3.7 billion to $5 billion.

Critics have raised concerns that funding for the retrofit could divert resources from other defence programmes, including the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile modernisation project.

At the unveiling, Trump thanked Qatar’s emir, describing him as “a fantastic guy,” and praised the aircraft as “the world’s most luxurious plane.”

Trump also said the new jet would help the US keep pace with modern foreign leadership aircraft, calling the current situation “a little ridiculous.”

Earlier in the day, one of the ageing presidential Boeing 747s was officially retired after more than three decades of service, with the second aircraft continuing operations alongside the new interim jet.

The US Air Force said it had fast-tracked modifications to the Qatari aircraft while maintaining required safety and security standards for presidential transport.

The new aircraft is expected to take part in a large formation flyover over Washington on 4 July to mark the country’s 250th anniversary.

Officials said the aircraft includes upgraded interior fittings, though details remain limited.

The existing presidential fleet dates back to the George H.W. Bush administration, with one aircraft recently forced to return to base due to a minor electrical fault.