Trump Reverses Threat to Bombardier After Learning of Kansas Operations

At a campaign rally near Wichita, Kansas, President Donald Trump said he would not pursue earlier threats to restrict sales of the Canadian aviation company Bombardier Inc. after discovering the firm’s U.S. headquarters and manufacturing presence in the state. The president’s remarks followed Bombardier’s announcement of a $50 million investment package scheduled for October 15, which includes a new technical training centre and an expanded wheel-and-tire repair shop in Wichita.

Trump Targeted Canadian Bombardier Until He Learned It Has Kansas Operations

The United States and Canada have been locked in a broader trade dispute since bilateral negotiations collapsed in August, with tariffs and retaliatory measures affecting multiple sectors. Earlier in September, Trump used his Truth Social account to call for a ban on Bombardier jet sales unless the company built the aircraft domestically, labeling the products “not good enough.” Those statements came amid a rivalry with Gulfstream Aerospace, a Georgia-based competitor whose jets had recently received Canadian certification.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

• Trump explained that learning of Bombardier’s Kansas footprint changed his stance, noting the company would not be “hurt” while operating in the state.

Trump Targeted Canadian Bombardier Until He Learned It Has Kansas Operations

• Éric Martel, Bombardier’s chief executive officer, linked the president’s attention to the firm’s strong U.S. market presence.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

• Mark Masluch, a Bombardier spokesperson, highlighted the new North American Learning Center as a long-term source of high-skill jobs.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

• Bombardier employs roughly 3,500 people across more than 20 U.S. states and works with about 2,800 American suppliers, including GE Aerospace and Honeywell Aerospace.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

• The Wichita operation alone supports 1,500 jobs, according to Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

Trump Targeted Canadian Bombardier Until He Learned It Has Kansas Operations

• The company’s U.S. spending on suppliers totals about $2.5 billion annually.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

• “But now I find out they have a presence here, and we’re not hurting them if they’re in Kansas,” — Donald Trump, president

Trump Targeted Canadian Bombardier Until He Learned It Has Kansas Operations

• “America buys more than half of what Bombardier sells. If that’s the market, more of those planes should be built here,” — Mr. Marshall, boosting republican senator

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

• “I guess he hears about our planes all the time,” — Mr. Martel

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)