Bombardier named in trade escalation
US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 50 per cent tariff on Canadian-made aircraft and to “decertify” planes manufactured in Canada, directly naming Bombardier in a new escalation of trade tensions with Ottawa.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump accused Canada of refusing to certify several Gulfstream aircraft models, including the G500, G600, G700 and G800. He described the jets as among the most technologically advanced aircraft ever produced and claimed Canada was deliberately blocking their sale.
Certification dispute at centre of threats
Trump said his administration would respond by decertifying Bombardier Global Express aircraft and “all aircraft made in Canada” until Canada fully certifies Gulfstream jets. He warned that failure to resolve the issue immediately would trigger a 50 per cent tariff on all Canadian aircraft sold in the United States.
It remains unclear what Trump meant by “decertifying” the aircraft, as the Federal Aviation Administration, led by a Trump appointee, oversees aircraft certification in US airspace.
Bombardier responds, contacts Ottawa
Bombardier confirmed it is in contact with the Canadian federal government regarding Trump’s remarks. The company said its aircraft, facilities and technicians fully meet FAA standards and operate globally.
Bombardier added that it continues to invest and expand its operations in the United States and expressed hope for a swift resolution to avoid disruption to air traffic and passengers.
Wider impact on Canadian aerospace
Bombardier and Gulfstream compete directly in the business jet market. Several Gulfstream aircraft have already received partial certification from Transport Canada.
Trump also targeted Bombardier during his first term, imposing nearly 300 per cent tariffs on the C Series aircraft, later sold to Airbus and renamed the A220. Other manufacturers with Canadian operations, including De Havilland Canada and Airbus, could also face tariffs if the threat materialises.
Trade tensions intensify
Relations between Washington and Ottawa have deteriorated since Trump’s re-election. He has repeatedly criticised Prime Minister Mark Carney, recently threatening a 100 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods if Canada strengthens trade ties with China.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned Carney against “picking a fight” with Trump ahead of talks on the Canada-US-Mexico Agreement, which comes up for review this year.
Source: CBC
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