Delta Air Lines, one of the most profitable airlines in the world, raised concerns about the impact Trump’s tariffs could have on the industry. Late last week, these warnings came to light.
With tariffs of nearly 10 per cent impacting almost all imported planes and parts, Delta warned against the disruptive impact this will have on both airlines and their passengers.
Reuters shared the US carrier’s caution, saying “tariffs on imported airplanes and parts could force the airline to stop buying foreign-made planes and eliminate flights that serve about 10 million customers a year.” Delta’s comments were made as part of a US Commerce Department filing that had previously gone unreported. The airline warned of the impact on ticket prices and supply chains, adding:
“Delta would likely be forced to cancel existing contracts and reconsider contracts under negotiation […] it would also reduce manufacturing in the United States by both Boeing and Airbus.”
Yesterday, a second Reuters article showed five nations (Canada, China, Japan, Mexico, and Switzerland), the European Union, and major airline & aerospace manufacturers have formally urged Trump to abandon the proposed tariffs.
The EU said:
“As reliable trading partners, the European Union and United States should strengthen their trade regarding aircraft and aircraft parts, rather than hinder it by imposing trade restrictions.”
As the industry tackles the uncertainty that comes with these changes, leaders are making it clear, the stability of aviation is imperative and further disruption to the global supply chain will come with severe consequences.
For more like this see:
- How will tariffs impact the industry?
- 2025: Passenger growth and continued supply chain challenges
- Wizz Air CEO József Váradi on supply chain challenges and geopolitical uncertainty
