JFA AVIATION NEWS UPDATE: Pilatus Aircraft Back on Track
JF
US Finalizes Zero-Tariff Aircraft Agreements with Switzerland & South Korea
Adapted from reporting by Stephen Pope of Aerotime.aero (Nov. 18, 2025)
The United States has officially reinstated zero-tariff trade for aircraft and aircraft parts with both Switzerland and South Korea, restoring long-standing tariff-free treatment under the 1979 Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft. The announcement marks a major win for business aviation manufacturers, operators, and aircraft owners in the U.S.
A Return to Predictable, Open Aviation Trade
These new agreements realign Switzerland and South Korea with the same zero-tariff status the U.S. already maintains with the EU, Canada, Mexico, and the U.K. Under these rules, civil aircraft, engines, and parts can flow freely without the imposition of import duties — a foundation of international aviation commerce for over four decades.
Pilatus Aircraft Deliveries Back on Track
According to Pope’s reporting, Switzerland-based Pilatus Aircraft had been hit especially hard by the previous 39% U.S. tariff imposed during the Trump administration. The tariff forced Pilatus to halt PC-12 NGX and PC-24 deliveries to U.S. customers as of August 2025.
Deliveries resumed in late October 2025 to fulfill existing commitments — including one PC-12 NGX and one PC-24 for U.S. owners — but uncertainty remained until now.
The new zero-tariff agreement removes the final barrier, restoring uninterrupted deliveries and eliminating unnecessary costs for American buyers of Pilatus aircraft.
This is particularly significant because:
The Pilatus PC-12 NGX remains the world’s best-selling business turboprop.
The Pilatus PC-24, often called the “Super Versatile Jet,” has become one of the most in-demand light jets in the U.S. market.
South Korea Also Included
The updated agreements also restore zero-tariff treatment for aircraft products traded with South Korea, supporting manufacturers, suppliers, and operators who rely on predictable cross-border parts availability.
Industry Response
NBAA President & CEO Ed Bolen applauded the move, stating that reinstating tariff-free aircraft trade strengthens U.S. aerospace competitiveness and protects aviation jobs. As Pope notes, the 1979 Civil Aircraft Agreement has been a key contributor to America’s long-standing aerospace trade surplus.
Remaining Tariffs
A 10% U.S. tariff still applies to aircraft imported from Brazil, despite Brazil also being a signatory to the Civil Aircraft Agreement. The tariff is tied to broader U.S. trade actions unrelated to aviation.
What It Means for U.S. Aircraft Buyers & Owners
- The return to zero-tariff trade delivers immediate benefits:
- Lower acquisition costs for U.S. buyers of Pilatus aircraft
- Reduced parts prices
- Improved supply chain predictability
- No delays in importation or delivery
- Strengthened resale market stability
- Deliveries and parts shipments from Swiss and Korean manufacturers are expected to proceed immediately without added duties.
✈️ Thinking About Buying or Selling a Pilatus PC-12 or PC-24?
JFA AVIATION is ready to help.
As one of the nation’s trusted boutique aviation firms specializing in high-performance turboprops and light jets, we assist clients in:
- Purchasing a Pilatus PC-12 NGX or PC-24
- Selling pre-owned Pilatus aircraft for maximum market value
- Managing inspections, import logistics, and pre-purchase evaluations
- Providing market intelligence on Pilatus pricing, demand, and availability