In a post on his social media platform Truth Social on Thursday, Trump accused Canadian authorities of “wrongfully and illegally” refusing certification for multiple business jets produced by US-based Gulfstream Aerospace. He claimed that Ottawa’s actions were blocking Gulfstream’s access to the Canadian market and unfairly favouring domestic manufacturers.
Trump said the disputed aircraft include the Gulfstream G500, G600, G700 and G800 models, which he described as “among the most technologically advanced aeroplanes ever built.” He warned that unless Canada immediately certifies the Gulfstream jets, the United States would respond with punitive measures.
As part of the escalation, Trump announced that the US would move to decertify Bombardier aircraft, including the company’s flagship Global Express business jets. “We are hereby decertifying their Bombardier Global Expresses, and all aircraft made in Canada, until such time as Gulfstream, a great American company, is fully certified,” Trump wrote.
The president added that failure to resolve the matter promptly would result in steep trade penalties. “If this situation is not immediately corrected, I am going to charge Canada a 50% tariff on any and all aircraft sold into the United States of America,” he said.
The threat has raised concerns within the aerospace industry, where supply chains and sales are deeply integrated across the US–Canada border. Bombardier is a major employer in Canada’s aviation sector, while Gulfstream plays a significant role in the US business jet market. Any disruption could affect aircraft deliveries, certification timelines and investor confidence.
The dispute also carries political overtones. Reports emerged this week that the Trump administration had hosted representatives linked to an Alberta-based separatist movement, adding to sensitivities in Ottawa. Alberta is Canada’s largest energy-producing province and a critical part of the national economy.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded cautiously, stressing sovereignty and diplomatic engagement. “We expect the US administration to respect Canadian sovereignty. I am always clear in my conversations with President Trump to that effect,” Carney said.
Trump has increasingly used tariffs as leverage in trade negotiations, positioning them as tools to force market access and regulatory changes. Just a day earlier, he signed an executive order imposing tariffs on goods from countries supplying oil to Cuba, underlining his hardline trade approach.
Industry analysts warn that if the aircraft dispute escalates further, it could spill into broader trade relations and invite retaliatory measures from Canada, deepening uncertainty in North American commerce.
Trump Threatens 50% Tariff on Canadian Aircraft, Targets Bombardier Amid Escalating Dispute with Ottawa
Digital Desk
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social on Thursday, Trump accused Canadian authorities of “wrongfully and illegally” refusing certification for multiple business jets produced by US-based Gulfstream Aerospace. He claimed that Ottawa’s actions were blocking Gulfstream’s access to the Canadian market and unfairly favouring domestic manufacturers.
Trump said the disputed aircraft include the Gulfstream G500, G600, G700 and G800 models, which he described as “among the most technologically advanced aeroplanes ever built.” He warned that unless Canada immediately certifies the Gulfstream jets, the United States would respond with punitive measures.
As part of the escalation, Trump announced that the US would move to decertify Bombardier aircraft, including the company’s flagship Global Express business jets. “We are hereby decertifying their Bombardier Global Expresses, and all aircraft made in Canada, until such time as Gulfstream, a great American company, is fully certified,” Trump wrote.
The president added that failure to resolve the matter promptly would result in steep trade penalties. “If this situation is not immediately corrected, I am going to charge Canada a 50% tariff on any and all aircraft sold into the United States of America,” he said.
The threat has raised concerns within the aerospace industry, where supply chains and sales are deeply integrated across the US–Canada border. Bombardier is a major employer in Canada’s aviation sector, while Gulfstream plays a significant role in the US business jet market. Any disruption could affect aircraft deliveries, certification timelines and investor confidence.
The dispute also carries political overtones. Reports emerged this week that the Trump administration had hosted representatives linked to an Alberta-based separatist movement, adding to sensitivities in Ottawa. Alberta is Canada’s largest energy-producing province and a critical part of the national economy.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded cautiously, stressing sovereignty and diplomatic engagement. “We expect the US administration to respect Canadian sovereignty. I am always clear in my conversations with President Trump to that effect,” Carney said.
Trump has increasingly used tariffs as leverage in trade negotiations, positioning them as tools to force market access and regulatory changes. Just a day earlier, he signed an executive order imposing tariffs on goods from countries supplying oil to Cuba, underlining his hardline trade approach.
Industry analysts warn that if the aircraft dispute escalates further, it could spill into broader trade relations and invite retaliatory measures from Canada, deepening uncertainty in North American commerce.
