Why it Matters

Swiss aircraft manufacturer Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. is making its Washington debut by registering three lobbying firms in September 2025. This move signals an urgent push to address tariff concerns.

By the Numbers

External Lobbying: Pilatus hired three firms in September 2025:

Lobbying Team: Kevin Patrick Garvey leads Steptoe’s efforts. He specializes in international trade issues.

Historical Spending: No prior U.S. lobbying expenditures on record.

Broader Context

Congress is increasingly focused on protectionist trade policies. Recent legislation targets Chinese drones with tariffs citing national security concerns. The Trump administration has emphasized “reciprocal tariff action” to address trade imbalances. This environment creates challenges for foreign manufacturers like Pilatus.

The Agenda

Pilatus is lobbying specifically on “issues related to tariffs.” The company focuses on trade and transportation policy areas. No specific legislation has been identified as a target. The timing suggests urgent concerns about potential tariff impacts on aircraft imports.

Competitive Landscape

Pilatus joins a crowded field of aviation industry lobbyists. The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) spent $250,000 in Q2 2025 on aviation tariffs. Major players like Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Airbus Group Inc. are lobbying on Section 232 investigations and trade issues.

Between The Lines

Congress recently held hearings on trade policy priorities and the administration’s 2025 agenda. The Drones for First Responders Act (H.R.3786) and Drones for America Act (S.2168) target Chinese aircraft with tariffs. Sen. Jerry Moran supports the 1979 Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft, which eliminates aviation tariffs.

The Bottom Line

Pilatus’s rapid hiring of multiple lobbying firms signals serious concern about U.S. tariff policy. The Swiss manufacturer joins an active aviation lobby fighting protectionist trends.

All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!

Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article