STANS— Pilatus Aircraft Ltd has suspended all business jet deliveries to the United States after a 39% tariff on Swiss goods came into effect on August 6, 2025. The new tariffs, introduced under the administration of US President Donald Trump, have added what the company describes as “massive additional costs” and created a “significant competitive disadvantage.”
The US is Pilatus’ largest market, accounting for about 40% of its business jet deliveries. The Swiss manufacturer’s most popular models include the PC-12 single-engine turboprop and the PC-24 twin-engine business jet, both of which have seen strong demand from operators across the country, including at key hubs such as Teterboro (TEB) and Van Nuys (VNY).
Photo: By JDrewes (see www.jandrewes.de), slight edit by Alvesgaspar – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=68725460Pilatus Faces Market Pressure After Tariff
The 39% tariff on Swiss exports to the US marks the highest duty imposed in the latest round of trade measures. Industry sources say the announcement caught Swiss authorities and manufacturers off guard, especially as bilateral trade talks had appeared close to resolution.
Pilatus said it will temporarily halt deliveries to the US while seeking new markets to offset the losses. The company emphasized that its priority is protecting the jobs of its 3,000 employees, with measures such as reduced working hours and workforce adjustments through natural attrition under consideration.
In a statement provided to Reuters, Pilatus confirmed that “in the short term, the tariff will lead to a temporary halt in deliveries and thus to a temporary interruption of U.S. business.” The company is expected to focus on expanding in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Europe to make up for the slowdown, Simple Flying reported.
Pilatus Delivery Market Shift
The table below shows Pilatus’ approximate business jet delivery distribution before and after the 39% US tariff came into effect.
| United States | 40% | 0% (suspended) |
| Europe | 30% | 40% |
| Asia-Pacific | 15% | 25% |
| Latin America | 10% | 20% |
| Middle East/Africa | 5% | 15% |
Figures are estimated based on industry sources and Pilatus’ reported market distribution.
Delta Air Lines jets parked at MSP Airport; Photo- WikipediaIndustry-Wide Impact of US Tariffs
The tariff dispute is affecting more than just Swiss aviation. Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), warned that persistent tariff uncertainty could prompt airlines to defer or cancel aircraft orders, impacting all major manufacturers.
Delta Air Lines (DL) has publicly opposed paying tariffs on incoming aircraft, particularly from Airbus. The carrier has stated it may defer or cancel deliveries if tariff costs are not resolved, citing risks to US manufacturing and employment.
Some aerospace companies have negotiated exemptions. Under the UK-US trade deal, Rolls-Royce engines, built in the United Kingdom, will be allowed entry into the United States tariff-free. These engines are used in certain Boeing aircraft, insulating those models from additional costs.
Photo: By Richard Vandervord – http://www.airliners.net/photo/Pilatus/Pilatus-PC-24/2482952/L/, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37042816History of Pilatus
Founded in 1939 in Stans, Pilatus started as a maintenance facility for the Swiss Air Force before developing its own aircraft. The PC-12, launched in 1989, became the world’s best-selling pressurized single-engine turbine-powered aircraft thanks to its reliability, range of over 1,800 nautical miles, and ability to operate from short or unpaved runways.
Powered by the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67P engine, the PC-12 serves corporate operators, regional airlines, air ambulance providers, and government agencies. Its versatility has made it a favorite in both developed and remote regions.
In 2014, Pilatus introduced the PC-24, the first business jet capable of operating on short and unpaved strips. This model blends the performance of a jet with the accessibility of a turboprop, offering operators flexibility unmatched by most competitors.
Outlook for Pilatus and the US Market
While the tariff suspension is intended as a temporary measure, recovery will depend heavily on trade negotiations between the US and Switzerland. Analysts note that prolonged disruption could allow competitors to capture Pilatus’ market share in the United States.
For now, Pilatus is focusing on keeping production steady, securing alternative markets, and maintaining its workforce. The company has not ruled out resuming US deliveries if tariffs are eased or exemptions are granted.
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