Airlines, Aerospace Groups Warn Trump Tariffs Risk Safety, Supply

Airline and aerospace industry groups are warning that proposed tariffs by former President Donald Trump on imported aircraft, jet engines, and parts could jeopardize air safety and disrupt global supply chains. The concerns come as major U.S. airlines are already scaling back flight schedules amid economic uncertainty.

In April, Trump imposed a 10% tariff on all imports, and the Commerce Department followed with a Section 232 investigation, assessing whether additional tariffs on aviation products are necessary for national security. Industry leaders fear the move could lead to even steeper tariffs on critical components used in aircraft manufacturing and maintenance.

The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), which represents manufacturers such as Boeing, Airbus, and GE Aerospace, filed a statement urging the Commerce Department to consult the industry before implementing any Section 232 measures. The AIA also requested a 90-day extension to the public comment period and a delay of at least 180 days on any new tariffs to avoid disrupting aviation safety and supply chains.

Airlines for America, which represents major carriers including Delta, United, and American Airlines, echoed those concerns. The group warned that increased costs could lead to higher ticket prices, strained supply networks, a rise in counterfeit aircraft parts, and a setback to the aviation industry’s recovery.

In filings with the Commerce Department, the group emphasized that adding costs to the aviation sector would hurt national security and hinder the industry’s ability to innovate, grow, and invest in future infrastructure and safety technologies.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/aircraft-finance/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, foxbusiness.com