**Washington**: A coalition of 15 aviation stakeholders has called on U.S. officials for a unified strategy to protect the complex supply chain essential to the industry, stressing the need for cooperation to prevent severe disruptions and enhance competitiveness amidst challenges such as potential tariffs.
A coalition of 15 prominent aviation stakeholders has reached out to key U.S. officials, highlighting the urgent need for a unified approach to safeguard the intricate supply chain essential to the aviation industry. In a recently drafted letter addressed to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, the group underscored the potential for severe disruptions within the aviation supply network, calling for immediate discussions with the Trump administration.
The letter points to the complexity of the aviation supply chain, which comprises tens of thousands of suppliers worldwide. These suppliers deliver critical parts, platforms, and systems that are subject to rigorous safety standards. The coalition articulated concerns regarding the irreplaceable nature of these components, asserting that disruptions could jeopardise the industry’s overall stability. “The aviation supply chain involves tens of thousands of suppliers from all over the globe. They provide parts, platforms, and systems that require safety approval for use and installation. All of these may not be easily replaced or substituted,” the coalition stated.
In light of the potential cost and availability issues that may surface, the urgency for collaboration between the government and the industry was stressed. The group remarked, “Given this reality, it is essential that both government and industry work together to minimize cost and availability disruptions in the aviation supply chain, which in many cases cannot be easily or quickly addressed.” They maintained that such cooperation is vital for preserving the competitiveness of U.S. aviation manufacturing and maintenance sectors.
In addition to nurturing the industry’s innovative capabilities, the coalition underscored the importance of open dialogue and thorough analysis to effectively navigate the challenges currently facing the sector. They urged the Secretaries and Ambassador Greer to work alongside the industry and Congress on key policy initiatives aimed at addressing these pressing concerns. Specific proposals include strengthening aviation safety agreements and promoting policies that would encourage investments supportive of innovation.
Furthermore, the coalition has called for a meeting with the Trump administration to delve deeper into the present state of the aviation industry and to articulate recommendations for its future advancement. They emphasised that such a meeting would facilitate a platform for open communication and collaborative problem-solving.
Another critical request made by the coalition pertains to the need for an aerospace exemption from tariffs. They expressed concerns that the imposition of tariffs could lead to unintended and detrimental effects on the already fragile supply chain. By securing this exemption, the coalition believes it would enhance the industry’s competitiveness and mitigate the risk of unnecessary disruptions.
In summary, the aviation stakeholders are advocating for a proactive and cooperative strategy to protect the aviation supply chain, asserting that collaboration between the government and industry is essential for sustaining the sector’s success and competitiveness. This coordinated effort, they argue, is crucial for maintaining safety, encouraging innovation, and securing the industry’s pivotal role in the national economy.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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