Airbus may shift its focus to non-U.S. customers if new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump disrupt the company’s supply chain, CEO Guillaume Faury has hinted. In an interview with CNBC on Thursday, Faury suggested that Airbus might prioritize deliveries to global clients if it faces significant challenges delivering aircraft to the U.S.
Trump’s Tariff Threats and the Aerospace Industry
On Wednesday, Trump announced that his administration would introduce additional tariffs within the next month, a move that could impact various industries, including aerospace. These new trade restrictions might make it more expensive for Airbus to continue its operations smoothly within the U.S.
“We have a strong demand worldwide, so if we encounter serious difficulties in delivering to the U.S., we can adjust by expediting deliveries to other eager customers,” Faury stated.
Despite concerns over potential disruptions, Airbus remains optimistic. While presenting the company’s annual financial results in Toulouse earlier on Thursday, Faury reassured investors that Airbus would not be directly affected by the new tariffs.
“We purchase extensively from the U.S., we sell to the U.S., and we manufacture, assemble, and develop there—few companies have such a strong presence in the American market. Imposing tariffs in this industry would be a lose-lose situation,” he explained.
The CEO of Airbus has issued a stark warning: if former U.S. President Donald Trump follows through on his proposed tariffs on European goods, the aerospace giant may be forced to shift its focus away from American customers.
Airbus Weighs Its Options
With Trump eyeing a return to the White House in 2025, concerns over his aggressive trade policies are mounting. The former president has previously imposed tariffs on European aircraft, citing unfair competition with U.S. rival Boeing. If similar tariffs return, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury has hinted that the company might prioritize clients outside the U.S. to maintain profitability.
“We cannot operate in an environment where our aircraft become significantly more expensive for U.S. airlines due to trade restrictions,” Faury stated in a recent interview. “If tariffs are reinstated, we will have no choice but to shift our focus to other regions with fairer trade conditions.”
Implications for U.S. Airlines
Airbus has become a key supplier for major U.S. carriers such as Delta, American Airlines, and United. A shift in strategy could lead to fewer Airbus planes available for U.S. airlines, limiting their options and potentially driving up costs. Experts warn that if Boeing fails to keep up with demand or faces production challenges, airlines may struggle to expand their fleets efficiently.
A New Trade War?
Trump’s past trade policies led to increased tensions between the U.S. and Europe. In response to previous tariffs, the European Union retaliated with duties on American products. If a similar trade war reignites, it could have far-reaching consequences beyond the aerospace industry, affecting other sectors like agriculture, automobiles, and luxury goods.
For now, Airbus is closely monitoring the political landscape. The company remains committed to the U.S. market but is prepared to adapt if Trump’s tariffs make American sales unsustainable.
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