President Donald Trump defended his acceptance of a luxury Boeing 747 jet gifted by Qatar for temporary use as Air Force One during campaign rallies in Arizona and Montana on Wednesday.

Speaking at an airport rally in Bullhead City, Arizona, Trump described calling Qatar's emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to request a loan of the aircraft because the current presidential planes are aging. He recounted the emir offering the plane as a gift instead.

"When you’re given gifts, you take ’em, right?" Trump said. "When they give you a 747, you say two words: ‘thank you.’"

Trump noted that the U.S. planes in service are about 35 years old and praised the Qatari aircraft as one of the best 747s available. The jet, estimated at around $400 million in value, underwent modifications and entered service earlier this year as a bridge until new Boeing aircraft are delivered, now expected around 2028.

The president arrived in Montana later Wednesday evening aboard the aircraft for another rally. He has previously highlighted the arrangement as a way to avoid significant taxpayer costs for upgrades to the existing fleet while maintaining operational readiness.

The Qatar-donated plane features a new red, white, blue, and gold paint scheme and has been used for both domestic and some international travel. Trump has stated that the aircraft will eventually go to his presidential library after his term, similar to past presidential planes.

Critics have raised questions about the gift under the Constitution's emoluments clause, but the administration has maintained that it was accepted by the Defense Department in accordance with federal rules. Trump has emphasized the gesture strengthens ties with an ally and provides immediate practical benefits.