HS 880510 Aircraft launching gear and parts thereof; deck-arrestor or similar gear and parts thereof
Quick Answer: Aircraft launching gear and parts thereof, and deck-arrestor or similar gear and parts thereof, imported under HS 880510 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at rates up to 2.70%, and the US at rates up to 35% ad valorem. This classification specifically covers equipment designed for launching aircraft from ships or land-based carriers, as well as systems used to rapidly decelerate aircraft upon landing, such as arresting gear. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates across different jurisdictions. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data, highlighting the need for careful classification and duty rate verification for these specialized aviation components.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8805100000 | — | — | — |
| 8805109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8805101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8805100000 | — | — | — |
| 8805101000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8805109000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8805100000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 880510 cover?
This subheading covers specialized equipment designed for the launch and recovery of aircraft, particularly on naval vessels or airfields. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes catapults, arresting gear systems, and related components such as arrestor wires, buffers, and launching trolleys. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that these are systems integral to aircraft operations in confined or demanding environments, distinct from general aviation equipment.
What falls outside HS 880510?
The following products are excluded from HS 880510: general aircraft parts not specifically designed for launching or arresting gear, such as engines or airframes; ground support equipment not directly involved in launch or recovery operations (e.g., baggage tractors); and standard runway lighting or marking systems. For instance, aircraft tires, even if used on carrier-based aircraft, would typically be classified under their respective HS codes based on material and function, not under this specialized heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 880510?
A common error is misclassifying components of aircraft launching or arresting gear as general machinery parts or separate aircraft components. For example, a specialized hydraulic cylinder used exclusively within an arresting gear system might be incorrectly classified under Chapter 84 (Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances). Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 880510?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 880510 involves a thorough examination of the product's specific function and design. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) and the WCO Explanatory Notes. They should verify that the equipment is explicitly designed for aircraft launching or arresting, and that it is not a general-purpose item or a component classified elsewhere, ensuring precise documentation of its intended use.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 880510?
A specific aircraft arresting wire, weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). The calculation is: 10% × $15,000 USD = $1,500 USD. This rate applies if no preferential trade agreement is invoked.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 880510?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 880510, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Japan. To claim these preferences, a valid origin declaration or certificate, such as a USMCA certification of origin or a CPTPP certificate of origin, is typically required.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 880510 (Aircraft launching gear and parts thereof)?
Import duty rates for HS code 880510 can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 0.00%. In the EU, the TARIC system may list rates such as 2.70% ad valorem for certain origins. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, sometimes listed as Free or with specific ad valorem percentages. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 880510, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 880510 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of aircraft launching gear has a customs value of $100,000 and the applicable duty rate is 2.70% ad valorem, the duty amount would be calculated as: $100,000 (Customs Value) × 0.0270 (Duty Rate) = $2,700. In some cases, specific rates (e.g., per unit) might apply, but ad valorem is more common for this category. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 880510?
HS code 880510 covers 'Aircraft launching gear and parts thereof; deck-arrestor or similar gear and parts thereof'. The primary classification criterion is the function of the equipment. 'Aircraft launching gear' refers to devices used to assist aircraft in taking off, such as catapults. 'Deck-arrestor or similar gear' refers to systems designed to decelerate or stop aircraft, particularly on naval vessels or aircraft carriers, often involving cables and arresting gear. Parts specifically designed for these systems are also classified here. Items that do not perform these specific functions, even if used in aviation, would likely be classified elsewhere.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 880510?
When importing goods classified under HS code 880510, standard import documentation is generally required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the importing country and the nature of the equipment, specific certifications or declarations may be necessary. This could include proof of origin, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. For specialized aerospace equipment, manufacturers' specifications, technical drawings, or compliance certificates demonstrating adherence to aviation standards might be requested by customs authorities to verify the classification and intended use.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU free trade agreements, impact the duty rates for HS code 880510?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for goods classified under HS code 880510 if the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. For instance, if aircraft launching gear or its parts are manufactured in a country that is a party to a free trade agreement with the importing country (e.g., USMCA between the US, Mexico, and Canada, or an EU Free Trade Agreement), and they satisfy the origin requirements, they may qualify for preferential duty rates, often 0.00%. Importers must obtain a Certificate of Origin or other acceptable proof of origin from the exporter to claim these benefits. Without proper documentation proving origin, the standard MFN or general duty rate will apply.