U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday unveiled a new presidential aircraft donated by Qatar, describing it as “the world’s most luxurious plane” and a “flying White House.”

Speaking at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, Trump praised Qatar for providing the aircraft and commended the extensive modifications carried out to transform it into a presidential jet. He highlighted the plane’s interior features, including premium materials, wood finishes and powerful engines, saying the aircraft offers an unmatched level of luxury.

The aircraft, reportedly worth hundreds of millions of dollars, has sparked debate in the United States, with critics raising concerns over ethics, security and constitutional issues surrounding the acceptance of such a valuable gift from a foreign government.

During the unveiling ceremony, Trump defended the decision to accept the jet and thanked Qatar’s emir for the donation. He also noted that the aircraft flies farther and faster than previous Air Force One planes and could take part in celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence on July 4.

Journalists who toured the aircraft reported that it features leather seats, plush carpeting, wood-panelled interiors and gold-toned décor. The plane also contains patriotic artwork and images of notable American landmarks.

The unveiling comes as one of the Boeing 747 aircraft that has served as Air Force One since the 1990s is being retired. While Boeing is still working on two new presidential aircraft, the programme has faced years of delays and rising costs.

Under U.S. aviation rules, any aircraft carrying the president assumes the official call sign “Air Force One.”