US President Donald Trump announced on July 6, 2026, that he is building a granite helipad on the White House lawn to accommodate new, more powerful Marine One helicopters. Construction crews have already begun work on the helipad located on the South Lawn, the same area where a temporary UFC arena was set up to celebrate Trump's 80th birthday.

Trump described the helipad as featuring the seal of the White House carved in granite, calling it "a beautiful thing." He estimated the project's cost at up to US$6 million and stated it would be privately funded. Trump also said that Sikorsky Aircraft, a subsidiary of defense contractor Lockheed Martin, would be paying for the helipad.

When asked about the timeline and cost, Lockheed Martin stated that their contribution was made to the Trust for the National Mall, a nonprofit organization of the National Park Service, and was conducted in full accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.

This helipad project is part of a series of construction efforts overseen by Trump aimed at reshaping the White House grounds. Some previous projects have involved public funding despite initial claims of private financing.

Sources