AsianFin — Delta Air Lines has reportedly found a creative workaround to U.S. tariffs by partially dismantling brand-new Airbus A321neo aircraft in Europe to avoid hefty import duties, multiple American media outlets reported recently.

Facing a 10% tariff imposed under the Trump administration on European-manufactured aircraft, Delta opted to strip U.S.-made Pratt & Whitney engines from newly purchased A321neo jets before shipping the engines back to the United States—duty-free. These engines, manufactured domestically, are exempt from the import levy when returned independently.

Once back on U.S. soil, the engines are being repurposed to revive older Delta aircraft that had been grounded due to engine supply shortages. The unusual but legally sound maneuver has sparked discussion even among American commentators, with some noting the irony: a policy intended to protect American manufacturers has inadvertently created logistical headaches for U.S. companies.

“Delta found an incredibly smart solution,” one report noted, “demonstrating how trade barriers can sometimes drive operational ingenuity instead of reshoring production.”

The move underscores the growing complexity and unintended consequences of global trade tensions, particularly in high-value supply chains like aviation.