Piper Aircraft will avoid layoffs at its Vero Beach, Florida facility following the resolution of a U.S. trade policy issue that threatened manufacturing jobs. Congressman Mike Haridopolos (R-Florida) helped secure targeted trade exemptions that allow Piper to continue operations without disruption.
The intervention followed concerns earlier this year about U.S. tariffs affecting materials critical to Piper’s production lines. Employing more than 1,100 people in Vero Beach, the company manufactures training, personal, and light business aircraft and anchors a regional supply chain supporting hundreds more jobs.
Haridopolos worked with Piper executives and federal trade authorities to advocate for relief. “Piper Aircraft is an essential part of Vero Beach’s economy and Florida’s proud manufacturing tradition,” he said. “When I found out that these jobs were at risk, we got to work.”
Piper CEO John Calcagno praised Haridopolos for ensuring the aircraft manufacturer’s concerns were heard by federal officials. “This kind of problem-solving matters,” Calcagno said in a statement to TC Palm. “It keeps American manufacturers competitive. It protects skilled labor. And in this case, it made a direct difference for our community here on the Treasure Coast.”
Calcagno added that the outcome reflected “government at its best: responsive, informed, and focused on solving a real-world problem.” He emphasized that the relief enables Piper’s workforce to continue building aircraft “that reflect the skill, dedication, and ingenuity of American manufacturing.”
Haridopolos also praised the Trump Administration for working with his office on the resolution. “This was about standing up for Florida workers and sending a clear message: Manufacturing jobs matter,” he said. “I’m proud we delivered results that will keep Florida families working and our economy growing.”
Piper Aircraft’s Vero Beach plant remains one of the largest employers on Florida’s Treasure Coast and a key player in the state’s aerospace manufacturing sector.