Alaska Airlines cancels flights as tariffs disrupt aircraft deliveries

In the United States, Alaska Airlines has begun canceling more than a dozen flights daily as a result of tariffs imposed on Brazilian imports, which include new aircraft meant for its regional subsidiary, Horizon Air. This situation arose when the tariffs were introduced in April 2025, directly impacting Alaska Airlines’ ability to receive deliveries of new planes that were scheduled to begin arriving by the end of May. Without these additions to its fleet, the airline is forced to trim its flight schedule significantly, leading to increased operational disruptions during the peak summer travel season. The tariffs, which have raised costs on aircraft deliveries, have contributed to Alaska Airlines' decision to cut routes that had multiple flights, aiming to minimize the impact on travelers. The airline emphasizes the difficulty in making these choices, highlighting their commitment to customer care while navigating economic uncertainties. As a result of these aircraft delivery delays, operations at Horizon Air that typically serve regions like the Pacific Northwest and western Canada are particularly affected. In broader context, US airlines and aerospace manufacturers have expressed strong opposition to the tariff protections proposed under the Trump administration, fearing they could undermine the healthy trade surplus the sector has maintained for over 70 years. Despite requests for protective measures from the administration, industry leaders argue that these tariffs could reverse progress in the aviation sector and harm the domestic supply chain. The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) voiced concerns over these proposed tariffs, stating that while they are intended to protect domestic manufacturing, they risk damaging an already sensitive supply chain still in recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, major airline Delta Air Lines has taken proactive steps to mitigate the financial implications of tariffs on new aircraft by strategically planning international deliveries outside the tariff scope. In summary, while Alaska Airlines faces immediate operational challenges from the tariffs, the broader aviation industry in the US is collectively calling against such measures that threaten the stability and growth of their sector. The resolution of these issues remains crucial for the airlines as they adapt to changing economic conditions while striving to maintain service quality and customer satisfaction during a challenging travel climate.