CA, US & World
White House launches leak probe over security concerns involving Air Force One replacement
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and FBI Director Kash Patel reportedly helped lead an investigation into government leaks involving security concerns surrounding a Qatari-gifted aircraft intended to serve as Air Force One.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the investigation began after President Donald Trump became frustrated by disclosures about the plane’s security capabilities. Some officials were asked to turn over their phones to investigators while on White House grounds.
Sources said Patel was brought to the White House and worked alongside Wiles in what was described as a “war room” in the West Wing as officials investigated who shared information about the aircraft.
The probe focused on individuals involved in Trump’s travel plans and officials across multiple government agencies. Some officials reportedly declined to provide their devices.
The investigation has raised questions from critics about White House involvement in law enforcement matters and the traditional independence of the Justice Department.
A White House official said leaks involving the safety of the president, staff, and members of the press traveling with him are a national security concern and said the administration would take steps to prevent future disclosures.
The controversy centers around a $400 million aircraft gifted by Qatar that Trump had promoted as a future presidential aircraft. Reports raised concerns that the plane may not have the same security features as the current Air Force One aircraft.
Sources said the aircraft had been modified with defensive capabilities but was still considered less secure than the existing presidential planes, which were specifically designed with advanced protection systems.
By: CNN Newsource
July 14, 2026
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