The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says a long-running certification dispute with Canada over Gulfstream business jets may soon be resolved, according to Reuters.
On Tuesday, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford told reporters that he expects Transport Canada to approve several Gulfstream models that have been delayed for years, possibly as soon as this week. Transport Canada said it is still working with the FAA and Gulfstream on the certifications.
The issue drew political attention last month when President Trump criticized Canada over the delays and threatened tariffs on Canadian-made aircraft, as well as possible decertification of Bombardier business jets, if the Gulfstream aircraft were not approved.
Industry officials warned that using aircraft certification as a trade tool could disrupt the global aviation system, since U.S. airlines rely heavily on Canadian-built aircraft.
While the specific certification concerns haven’t been made public, FAA officials now suggest the two countries may have reached a solution.
Does anyone know why Canada was delaying certifying the aircraft? What was their concern?
Folding to the petulant Pumpkin…
Some Canadian aviation experts have pointed out that certain U.S. exemptions related to icing conditions may not meet Canada’s stricter standards. This can slow validation until Transport Canada is satisfied with compliance.