Independent senator Aubrey McCarthy has proposed that Ireland should approach Qatar about the possibility of receiving a complimentary government aircraft, following reports that the Gulf state plans to gift a $100 million plane to US president Donald Trump.
Speaking in the Seanad, McCarthy suggested Ireland should “throw our diplomatic hat in the ring” for a more modest aircraft than Trump’s planned “Air Force One” replacement, but one that would still offer “leather seats, decent wi-fi and perhaps a microwave for heating sausage rolls.”
The senator called on the foreign affairs minister to explore diplomatic negotiations with Qatar, arguing that “while we do not need a palace in the sky, such diplomacy could yield a significant rate to Irish taxpayers.”
The unusual suggestion comes as the Department of Defence has already signed a €53 million deal to purchase a French-made Falcon 6X jet, scheduled for delivery in December. The new aircraft will have a total seating capacity of 17 persons with passenger capacity for 14, and will be operated by the Irish Air Corps from Baldonnel.
According to ABC News, Trump’s gifted plane would serve as a temporary Air Force One until his presidency concludes in January 2029, when ownership would transfer to the foundation overseeing his presidential library. Trump defended accepting the aircraft, noting the current Air Force One is 40 years old, telling Fox News: “We’re the United States of America. I believe we should have the most impressive plane.”