Key facts
- President Donald Trump stated that Bombardier must build in the U.S. to sell there.
- Trump threatened to "de-certify" Canadian-built aircraft and impose a 50% tariff.
- The threat is linked to Canada's certification of Gulfstream business jets.
- Industry experts warned of significant disruption to the North American aerospace sector.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday that Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier would be prohibited from selling its products in the United States unless it begins manufacturing within the U.S. Trump stated on his Truth Social platform that Bombardier's products were "not good enough" and that if they desired access to the American market, they "must build here, and stop treating America like a 'piggybank.'"
This statement comes amid an ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States. Trump further threatened to "de-certify" Bombardier Global Express business jets and all other aircraft manufactured in Canada until Canada's regulator, Transport Canada, certifies four specific models produced by U.S. rival Gulfstream. He also proposed a 50% import tariff on all aircraft made in Canada and sold into the U.S.
The dispute centers on Transport Canada's alleged refusal to certify Gulfstream's G500, G600, G700, and G800 aircraft. Trump characterized this refusal as "wrongful" and "illegal," justifying his retaliatory measures. However, no evidence has been presented to support claims that Transport Canada has deliberately withheld certification.
Industry experts and unions have voiced concerns about the potential ramifications of Trump's threats. John Gradek, a lecturer on aviation and supply chain management at McGill University, expressed astonishment, noting the potential disruption to the deeply integrated North American aerospace industry and the thousands of jobs at risk on both sides of the border. The IAM union, representing numerous aerospace workers, echoed these concerns.
It remains unclear what legal or regulatory mechanism President Trump could employ to revoke certifications for aircraft already approved and operating in the U.S., as such actions are typically predicated on safety concerns rather than economic disputes.