Adjusting Imports of Commercial Aircraft, Jet Engines, and Aircraft and Engine Parts into the United States

Key Points

• A Commerce Department investigation concluded that the U.S. imports too many commercial aircraft, jet engines, and related parts, and that this reliance threatens national security.
• Rather than impose tariffs right away, the administration is directing officials to negotiate with foreign countries first to try to fix the problem without new taxes on imports.
• The Commerce Secretary and U.S. Trade Representative must negotiate agreements with trading partners and report back on their progress within 180 days.
• Officials cited safety concerns from counterfeit or low-quality imported parts, which have caused real problems like aircraft being pulled from service and corroded fuselages.
• If the negotiations don't resolve the concerns, the administration has left the door open to stronger action later, potentially including tariffs on imported planes and parts.