Fair Trade Policies Bolster U.S. Aerospace Exports, Says Former Congressman

WICHITA, Kansas (Newsmax) – As the nation grapples with international trade dynamics, Todd Tiahrt, former Representative from Kansas’s Fourth District and long-time champion of fair trade principles for American aviation, emphasized the importance of policies like the Aircraft Agreement on Tuesday.

Tiahrt, who served in Congress for years representing Wichita—the self-proclaimed “Air Capital of the World”—stated that removing unnecessary trade barriers has been vital to keeping U.S. aerospace companies competitive globally. He pointed to Boeing’s recent success securing orders for its aircraft as a testament to this approach.

“This isn’t political; it’s about recognizing what makes America successful in aviation: innovation and reliability,” Tiahrt explained during an event dedicated to exploring the future of trade relations between nations, including discussions on international markets like the one referenced indirectly among global partners. “We build some of the most advanced aircraft, and fair trade agreements help ensure that.”

The cornerstone of his argument is the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft, signed decades ago, which Tiahrt called a model for fostering growth within the sector through open access.

“Without it, the industry could have become bogged down,” he said. “Instead, we created stability and opportunity—just like when our state exported 200 planes recently.”

Kansas, home to thousands of skilled workers building aircraft across multiple sectors, including general aviation and military components, stands as an example Tiahrt frequently highlights.

“It expands export opportunities, supports thousands of jobs right here in Kansas,” he noted. “And it reinforces the leadership we have in aerospace – a sector where precision matters.”

Tiahrt praised the Trump administration’s commitment to boosting American exports abroad but stopped short of commenting directly on any specific foreign policy or trade deal involving unnamed nations or sectors.

He added, however: “If anyone doubts how targeted policies can benefit our workers, I encourage them to visit Wichita. You see firsthand what it means to be America’s Air Capital – a place where ingenuity and skilled manufacturing converge.”

As part of ongoing U.S.-Ukraine talks focused on defense cooperation and export agreements in the aviation sector, Tiahrt hopes that continued adherence to fair trade principles will allow American companies to thrive while strengthening ties with global partners.

“This issue isn’t partisan; it’s about what works for workers,” he concluded. “And removing barriers allows both sides to benefit.”

Todd Tiahrt is a former Member of Congress who represented the Kansas district for 20 years, specializing in defense and aerospace matters.