Aircraft parts maker Howmet Aerospace (NYSE: HWM) has taken the extraordinary step of declaring force majeure in response to President Trump’s tariff measures, warning it could suspend deliveries of components essential to both Airbus (EPA: AIR) and Boeing (NYSE: BA) production lines.
In a customer letter reviewed by Reuters, the Pittsburgh manufacturer cited “unavoidable external circumstances” that could legally free it from fulfilling certain supply contracts if tariff impacts become too severe.
The letter stated that “Howmet will be excused from supplying any products or services that are impacted by this declared national emergency and/or the tariff executive order.”
The aerospace components supplier, which provides critical metal parts throughout the $350 billion commercial aircraft sector, appears to be the first major aviation industry supplier to deploy such legal protections since Trump announced sweeping tariffs ranging from 10% to approximately 50% last week.
Industry sources said any successful force majeure declaration could ripple through the aerospace supply chain as manufacturers attempt to pass on the burden of increased costs.
The letter indicated Howmet would engage with customers about “alleviating” tariff impacts, noting it would work with customers “including discussing your interest in alleviating the impact of the Tariff Executive Order on Howmet.”
Information for this story was found via Reuters, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
