Delta Air Lines avoids tariffs with innovative engine repurposing strategy

Delta Air Lines is navigating the challenges posed by tariffs between the United States and Europe with an innovative approach. The airline has been removing US-built engines from new aircraft manufactured in Europe and shipping them back to the United States. This strategy allows Delta to avoid paying a 10% tariff on imported jets, while equipping its fleet with new turbines.

According to The Detroit News, Delta's method involves using American-made engines on grounded aircraft that originally had Pratt and Whitney engines. This enables Delta to maintain fleet growth without incurring additional costs for new Airbus jets.

Delta's CEO, Ed Bastian, stated: “We are not planning to pay tariffs on aircraft deliveries.” Despite this workaround, some engine-less aircraft remain undelivered due to tariffs and unapproved seats by regulators.