Trump threatens to ban Bombardier sales in U.S. unless it builds planes in America

U.S. President Donald Trump is threatening to shut Bombardier out of the American market unless the Quebec-based aircraft manufacturer begins building its planes in the United States, escalating tensions as a broader trade dispute between Canada and the U.S. intensifies.

Trump took aim at Bombardier in a Truth Social post Monday (Sept. 7), declaring that the Canadian manufacturer would no longer be permitted to sell its aircraft in the U.S.

"NO MORE SELLING BOMBARDIER IN THE UNITED STATES! Their products aren’t good enough!" Trump wrote.

"If they want our Market, they must build here, and stop treating America like a 'piggybank.'"

The threat is the latest move in Trump's push to pressure both foreign and domestic companies to expand manufacturing in the United States.

That objective has been central to several of his administration's economic policies during his second term, including a sweeping tariff regime that has sparked disputes with numerous U.S. trading partners.

The comments come as Canada prepares to impose a new wave of counter-tariffs against the United States early Tuesday.

It remains unclear how the Trump administration would attempt to prevent Bombardier aircraft from being sold or delivered in the U.S.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request by CBC News for clarification on how such a measure would be enforced or what steps could be taken to block deliveries of Bombardier jets already approved by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Quebec premier backs Bombardier

Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette responded to Trump's comments Monday, saying on social media that she would not answer the president's provocations with further provocations.

"Bombardier is a source of pride for Quebec, a flagship of our economy, and a major player in our aerospace industry. Behind this company are thousands of Quebec workers who showcase our expertise around the world," she wrote in French.

"I have reached out to Eric Martel, CEO of Bombardier, to offer him our full support."

Bombardier points to U.S. footprint

Bombardier, meanwhile, highlighted its existing operations and investments south of the border in a statement issued late Monday.

The company said its aircraft support "tens of thousands of U.S. jobs" and pointed to plans for further expansion in the country.

"Bombardier values its great partnership with American companies and its U.S. employees. Our plan is to continue to invest in our people, our customers and the communities in which we operate across the country," the statement said.

The aerospace sector has so far largely avoided the fallout from the tariff dispute, with aircraft and parts currently moving across the border without being hit by duties. (Travel and tourism between the two countries, however, have experienced significant declines).

According to U.S. trade group Aerospace Industries Association, the country's aerospace and defence industry recorded a US$109.2-billion trade surplus, while exports increased 25 per cent year over year in 2025.

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