United States to Set New Tariffs on Imported Aircraft Parts

The US Department of Commerce is moving forward with plans to impose new tariffs on imported aircraft parts, potentially by the end of June as the department completes its analysis.

“We expect that, probably by the end of the month, we will have an analysis and establish the rule for the tariffs on aircraft parts. The key is to protect our industry and ensure that those who trade with us treat us fairly,” says Howard Lutnick, US Secretary of Commerce, during a Senate hearing.

This policy move is part of a broader investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which allows the federal government to impose trade restrictions on the grounds of national security. The products under review include commercial aircraft, jet engines, and related components, which now face a 10% tariff.

The potential escalation of tariffs has raised significant concern across the US aerospace sector. The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), which represents major manufacturers such as Boeing, Airbus, RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies), and GE Aerospace, has formally requested a 90-day extension of the public comment period, as well as a 180-day moratorium before any tariff changes are implemented.

“We believe these measures could jeopardize national security, aviation safety, and supply chain stability,” says the AIA. 

Airlines for America, a trade group representing carriers including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, echo these concerns. The group warns that higher tariffs would lead to increased costs for airlines, which would likely be passed on to consumers in the form of more expensive tickets and freight charges.

“If these tariffs are enacted, passengers and businesses alike will face higher prices, reducing the competitiveness of the US aviation sector,” says the group.

The Section 232 investigation aims to assess whether the volume and circumstances of aircraft-related imports compromise national security. However, representatives of the industry caution that the outcome could backfire by harming the very capabilities the policy seeks to protect. They point out that many components critical to US manufacturing and maintenance come from international partners with long-standing supply agreements and certifications.

“Imposing tariffs on these products could slow down innovation and limit the responsiveness of our aerospace base, which is vital for both commercial and defense applications,” says the AIA.