Aircraft, spacecraft, and parts thereof (chapter 88): which countries import it
Chapter 88 covers aircraft, spacecraft and their components. Global imports reached USD 192 billion in 2025, led by the United States, Ireland and…
Published on 27 September 2026Updated on 27 September 2026
Chapter 88 covers aircraft, spacecraft and their components. Global imports reached USD 192 billion in 2025, led by the United States, Ireland and Germany. Spain exported USD 5.4 billion to the world. Exports require verification of technical standards, export controls and sector-specific certifications depending on the product and destination.
Fact sheet
- Code
- 88
- Sector
- Industry and Machinery
Main importing markets
USD · 2025| Country | Imports (USD) |
|---|---|
| United States | 33,849,954,259 |
| Ireland | 21,748,383,253 |
| Germany | 20,346,172,655 |
| France | 17,354,693,329 |
| United Kingdom | 13,427,247,491 |
| China | 12,386,749,892 |
| India | 11,361,947,815 |
| Canada | 9,158,684,595 |
| Singapore | 8,049,371,120 |
| Japan | 5,754,107,443 |
| Spain | 5,444,696,878 |
| Türkiye | 5,421,505,809 |
| Malaysia | 4,930,002,931 |
| Netherlands | 4,840,578,828 |
| Brazil | 4,661,061,137 |
Imports declared by each country from the world. Countries report with a delay: the period is the latest with consolidated data.
Source: UN ComtradeData for 2025Verified on 27 September 2026
Headings in this chapter
- Balloons and dirigibles; gliders, hang gliders and other non-powered aircraft.Heading 8801
- Aircraft n.e.c. in heading no. 8801, except unmanned aircraft of heading 8806, (e.g. helicopters, aeroplanes); spacecraft (including satellites) and suborbital and spacecraft launch vehiclesHeading 8802
- Aircraft; parts of heading no. 8801 or 8802Heading 8803
- Parachutes (including dirigible parachutes and paragliders) and rotochutes; parts thereof and accessories theretoHeading 8804
- Aircraft launching gear, deck-arrestor or similar gear, ground flying trainers; parts of the foregoing articlesHeading 8805
- Unmanned aircraftHeading 8806
- Aircraft; parts of goods of heading 8801, 8802 or 8806Heading 8807
Trade fairs in this sector
- Advanced Factories
- bauma
- BIEMH – Bienal Internacional de Máquina‑Herramienta
- EMO (Exposition Mondiale de la Machine Outil)
- Hannover Messe
- interpack – PROCESSING & PACKAGING
What to check before exporting aircraft and spacecraft
Chapter 88 is divided into seven headings, from non-powered aircraft and balloons to unmanned aircraft and spacecraft. The products range from complete aircraft to individual components like fuselages, engines and landing gear. Identify which heading applies to your product: this determines the tariff classification and the regulations that govern it.
Exports of aircraft and spacecraft are subject to dual-use controls in most jurisdictions due to their defence and security applications. Before exporting, verify whether your product requires an export licence from your national authority. In Spain, this is managed through the Ministry of Industry. Failure to obtain required authorisation can result in legal penalties and shipment seizure.
Technical standards vary by destination and product type. Commercial aircraft must meet airworthiness certificates; components must satisfy material, performance and traceability requirements. Check with your buyer or the destination country's aviation authority which standards apply. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets global baselines, but individual countries and trade blocs often impose additional requirements.
Tariff treatment depends on the specific subheading, the destination country and any trade agreement in force between Spain and the buyer. Use Access2Markets to check the applicable duty rate and any non-tariff requirements for your destination. If you export within the EU, tariffs are zero; outside the EU, rates vary significantly.
Quality documentation is critical. Export contracts should specify technical drawings, certificates of conformity, material certifications and test reports. Buyers often require traceability of components, especially for aerospace-grade materials. Agree on these requirements in writing before production.
Questions about exporting aircraft and aerospace components
Do I need an export licence to ship aircraft parts to countries outside the EU?
Possibly. Aircraft components may be subject to dual-use export controls if they have defence or military applications. Contact Spain's Ministry of Industry or an export compliance advisor to determine if your product is controlled. Even if a licence is not required, most non-EU buyers will ask for end-use documentation to confirm the shipment's intended purpose.
What happens if my product falls under Chapter 88 but I'm not sure which heading?
Misclassification can delay shipment and trigger penalties. Request a binding tariff information (BTI) ruling from Spanish customs (AEAT) before exporting in volume. Provide a detailed product description, drawings and samples if needed. The ruling takes 60 days and is valid for three years.
Which markets import the most aircraft and components?
The United States, Ireland, Germany, France and the United Kingdom are the largest importers globally. As a Spanish exporter, you already have zero tariffs within the EU. Outside the EU, check tariff rates and trade agreements for each destination using Access2Markets. Each market also has its own certification and documentation requirements.
Are there industry trade fairs where I can meet buyers in this sector?
Yes. Hannover Messe, EMO and bauma are major fairs for machinery and industrial equipment that include aerospace components. Advanced Factories focuses on manufacturing technology relevant to aerospace. BIEMH and interpack also host aerospace-related exhibitors. Attending these fairs helps you understand market trends, meet distributors and understand buyer expectations for quality and documentation.
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