Pilatus Halts U.S. Jet Deliveries After Tariffs Hit

The Swiss aircraft manufacturer Pilatus halted its delivery operations of PC-12 and PC-24 business jets to the United States following Washington's decision to impose a 39% tariff on Swiss imports which severely impacted their main market.

The Stans-based manufacturer stated that the imposed tariff creates a major competitive disadvantage which will force a short-term stoppage of U.S. business operations because the two aircraft models receive 40% of their production volume from this market. Swiss exporters face concern about the tariffs which President Donald Trump implemented through his trade measures while job cuts remain a possibility.

The company plans to redirect its aircraft production to different markets while speeding up its plans to establish a Florida-based assembly plant to mitigate the impact of these duties. The company plans to protect its 3,000 workforce through short-term work arrangements or natural employee departures.

The Swiss government maintains diplomatic efforts with Washington to lower trade restrictions following President's unsuccessful attempt to secure concessions during his last-minute visit.