Pilatus suspends U.S. deliveries of PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft over new tariffs

Swiss aircraft manufacturer Pilatus announced on August 8 that it has halted deliveries of its PC-12 turboprop and PC-24 light jet to customers in the United States. The move follows new U.S. import tariffs on Swiss products, which came into effect the previous day.

The decision impacts one of Pilatus’ largest markets, as U.S. operators account for 40% of its global aircraft fleet. The PC-12 is a high-performance single-engine turboprop, while the PC-24 is a versatile light jet capable of operating from short and unpaved runways.

On Thursday, the Trump administration imposed 39% tariffs on goods imported from Switzerland, amid the trade war launched by the Republican.

Pilatus has not specified how long the suspension will last but said it is monitoring the situation and assessing alternatives to mitigate the impact on its American customers.

The company stated that the new tariffs significantly affect the competitiveness of its aircraft in the U.S. market by increasing final prices for operators and complicating future sales.

“The new customs tariff imposed by the U.S. authorities represents a significant competitive disadvantage for Pilatus,” said the manufacturer.

Based in Stans, Switzerland, Pilatus is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of small and midsize business and utility aircraft. In addition to corporate aviation, its models are widely used for regional transport, special missions, and government operations.

The company also has a very successful line of military training turboprops, including the PC-7, PC-9 and PC-21.

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