Federal Updates US, EU Reach Agreement on Trade and Tariffs Sen. Ted Cruz Introduces ROTOR Act to Improve Aviation Safety in the NAS News from VAI’s Western US Regional Representative “Word from the Street,” by Chuck Street, VAI Western US Regional Representative Federal Updates US, EU Reach Agreement on Trade and Tariffs Summary of Facts On Jul. 27, 2025, US President Donald J. Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an agreement between the United States and the European Union (EU) on trade and tariffs aimed at strengthening the transatlantic economic relationship. An important part of the agreement is the mutual removal of tariffs on aircraft and aircraft parts, which will help grow jobs, strengthen economic security, and support US leadership in aviation manufacturing and safety. The agreement helps restore a sense of stability and predictability for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic, preserving deeply integrated value chains and safeguarding jobs. While not legally binding, it outlines key commitments and marks the beginning of a broader negotiation process. Key provisions: Tariff rate: The United States will implement a 15% tariff on most EU goods effective Aug. 1, 2025. This rate covers a range of categories. Strategic products: US tariffs on EU aircraft, aircraft parts, certain chemicals, and natural resources will revert to pre-2021 levels, offering immediate relief to key sectors. Both sides have committed to continuing negotiations, following their respective internal procedures, to fully implement and expand on the terms of this agreement. VAI Position and Actions VAI welcomes the removal of tariffs on aircraft, recognizing the agreement as a positive step for the vertical aviation industry. The move reduces costs for manufacturers and operators, streamlines supply chains, and improves access to essential components such as engines. The deal also supports the growth of advanced air mobility, including electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, by easing cross-border trade and lowering barriers. Overall, the agreement enhances market access and provides greater certainty for investment and transatlantic collaboration in vertical flight innovation. Sen. Ted Cruz Introduces ROTOR Act to Improve Aviation Safety in the NAS Summary of Facts Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Tex.), chair of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, has introduced the Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act to improve aviation safety in the US National Airspace System (NAS). If passed, the legislation will require all newly manufactured, US-registered manned aircraft to be equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast In (ADS–B In) technology, which will allow pilots to better communicate with other aircraft, air traffic control, and ground vehicles. The bill directs the FAA administrator to revise regulations within one year to clarify that the term “sensitive government mission” does not include training or proficiency flights conducted within Class B or C airspace (unless for national security purposes). Within 180 days, the FAA must also issue guidance stating that national defense, homeland security, intelligence, and law enforcement flights should use Traffic Information Services–Broadcast (TIS–B) and the Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS). Additionally, the ROTOR Act calls for a number of reviews and studies: Within 30 days: the FAA must initiate a review of all currently charted helicopter routes where separation between vertical flight aircraft and fixed-wing aircraft may be insufficient. Based on the findings, the FAA must evaluate and modify routes as needed to enhance safety. Within 60 days: the US Army inspector general must initiate an audit to assess not only the army’s coordination with the FAA, pilot training, and qualification standards, but also compliance with its own policies on ADS–B Out usage. Within 120 days: the FAA must begin a study on the feasibility, cost, and benefits of establishing a dynamic restricted area where the transit of vertical flight and powered-lift aircraft is prevented in specific areas of airspace over the Potomac River surrounding Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (KDCA) when activated by computer based on flight data from fixed-wing aircraft. VAI Position and Actions VAI supports efforts to enhance safety in the NAS. We recognize the importance of technologies such as ADS–B In, and we appreciate congressional attention to the unique dynamics of low-altitude operations. VAI has always advocated for collaboration and engagement between government and industry stakeholders to ensure that safety improvements are practical and effective and that they do not unintentionally hinder innovation or access to airspace. As the vertical flight sector continues to evolve, policy and regulation must be shaped through a collaborative, forward-looking approach. VAI stands ready to work with Congress and the FAA to produce the best safety enhancements possible. News from VAI’s Western US Regional Representative “Word from the Street,” by Chuck Street, VAI Western US Regional Representative Last month, I shared concerns about the Los Angeles International Airport (KLAX) air traffic control (ATC) tower management’s proposal to eliminate five helicopter routes, set to take effect on Aug. 7. These changes were initially announced without conducting a safety risk management panel or consulting the helicopter operators who have long used these routes. Following multiple discussions with ATC and the FAA, KLAX tower management informed local stakeholders two weeks ago that, after further review, it had decided to rescind the proposed changes. This was welcome news. ATC also reminded helicopter pilots to continue flying at safe and appropriate altitudes near KLAX, a standard we all take seriously. I commend the KLAX tower management for reconsidering its initial decision based on data and stakeholder input. Additionally, I recently visited several helicopter tour operators in the Hawaiian Islands. I was impressed by their professionalism and strong commitment to safety. These operations are essential to the islands’ economy and regional connectivity, and I truly appreciated the warm welcome at each stop. The aloha spirit was on full display.
