Kash Patel’s FBI Jet Controversy: Luxury Flight for Personal Trip
Former Trump administration official Kash Patel reportedly boarded a $60 million FBI-owned Gulfstream V jet in October 2021 to attend his then-girlfriend Kimberly Guilfoyle’s appearance on The Five. While the FBI insists no policies were violated, the incident has sparked bipartisan criticism over misuse of taxpayer-funded resources.
Flight Details: FBI’s High-Value Jet Used for Personal Trip
Internal documents reveal Patel—former chief of staff to the acting Secretary of Defense—joined Guilfoyle, a Fox News correspondent at the time, via the FBI’s elite Gulfstream V. Typically reserved for counterterrorism ops and witness transport, the jet costs taxpayers approximately $10,000 per flight hour.
Key facts:
– Aircraft Value: $60M
– Flight Purpose: Personal travel for TV appearance
– Date: October 2021
FBI’s Defense: “Operational Necessity” Claim Raises Questions
The agency stated Patel’s travel was authorized under “operational necessity” but provided no specifics. Critics argue the vague justification undermines public trust:
“Taxpayer-funded jets shouldn’t be Uber rides for political allies,” said Judicial Watch’s Tom Fitton.
Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) echoed concerns, calling for stricter oversight of federal assets.
Patel’s FBI Ties and Political Fallout
The incident highlights Patel’s complicated relationship with the bureau:
– Previously accused FBI of “Deep State” bias
– Played key roles in Trump-era intelligence disputes
– Now faces scrutiny over privileged access
Calls for Investigation and Reform
Watchdog groups demand:
1. DOJ Inspector General review
2. Transparent flight authorization records
3. Policy reforms to prevent misuse
Despite mounting pressure, neither Patel nor Guilfoyle (now engaged to Donald Trump Jr.) has publicly addressed the flight.
