Ryanair Threatens $30 Billion Boeing Order Over U.S. Tariffs

Ryanair, Europe's largest budget airline, has threatened to cancel its $30–33 billion order for up to 330 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft if U.S. tariffs, introduced under the Trump administration, significantly increase costs. CEO Michael O’Leary warned that if the tariffs make Boeing jets unaffordable, the airline will seek alternatives—even considering the Chinese COMAC C919, despite its current lack of European certification and limited production capacity. The dispute underscores mounting pressure on Boeing, which is already grappling with production delays and supply chain challenges, and raises the risk of broader instability in the global aviation market. Industry experts note that aircraft purchase contracts typically lack tariff protections, leaving buyers exposed to political and economic shifts. With Airbus reportedly fully booked for years and COMAC not ready for large-scale international sales, Ryanair’s options may be limited, but the threat signals a possible shift in the balance of power among global aircraft manufacturers. The standoff reflects growing uncertainty in the aviation industry as trade tensions escalate and traditional supplier relationships come under scrutiny.