What is the HS code for helicopters?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
HS-2 · Chapter 88
HS chapter 88: Aircraft, spacecraft
Section XVII — Vehicles, aircraft, vessels and associated transport equipment
Goods classified under HS-88 include aircraft, spacecraft, and their parts. For example, a shipment of a commercial jet engine would fall under this chapter. Understanding the correct HS-4 code is essential for compliance and accurate duty assessment.
To determine the appropriate HS-4 code, start by identifying the specific type of aircraft or part. For instance, if you're dealing with helicopters, you'd look at 8802. If your product is a parachute, check 8804. Each heading narrows down the category based on function and design.
Next, examine the notes and definitions associated with each HS-4 heading. Some terms may overlap, like 'aircraft' and 'unmanned aircraft,' which can lead to confusion. Clarifying the end-use and specific features of your product will guide you to the correct six-digit HS-6 code.
Finally, consult with a customs broker if you're unsure about the classification. They can provide insights based on recent rulings and help ensure compliance with national regulations, which may have specific digits following the HS-6 code.
Terms & reference phrasing
These are common trade terms used for this chapter. Use them as context, not as a substitute for legal wording.
aircraft classification · spacecraft parts · aircraft import codes · unmanned aircraft · aircraft parts · parachute classification · aircraft launching gear · aircraft HS-4 codes · aircraft export regulations · spacecraft launch vehicles · aircraft compliance · aircraft engine parts · customs broker aircraft · aircraft shipment examples · aircraft and spacecraft · HS-88 codes · aircraft import/export · aircraft regulations
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Parent context
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Next best action
Pick one of these actions to move from reading to a defensible classification decision.
Related topics
Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.
- how to classify aircraft for customs
- understanding HS codes for aircraft parts
- importing unmanned aircraft regulations
- finding the right HS code for spacecraft
- aircraft launching gear classification
- differences between aircraft HS-4 codes
- aircraft parts import/export compliance
- guidelines for parachute HS classification
Examples & common questions
Example products reflect typical trade descriptions. The questions below mirror practical doubts teams raise during filing.
Example products
- Commercial jet engines for aircraft (HS-8802)
- Hot air balloons and dirigibles (HS-8801)
- Helicopters and aeroplanes (HS-8802)
- Parachutes and accessories (HS-8804)
- Aircraft launching gear (HS-8805)
- Unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) (HS-8806)
- Parts for aircraft engines (HS-8807)
- Ground flying trainers (HS-8805)
Common classification questions
How do I classify a drone for import?
Confirm composition, processing stage, and end-use in your documents before mapping to country digits.
What are the regulations for importing aircraft parts?
Confirm composition, processing stage, and end-use in your documents before mapping to country digits.
Which HS-4 code applies to parachutes?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
How do I find the right HS-6 code for my aircraft?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
Are there specific duties for spacecraft?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What is the HS code for a commercial airplane?
- A commercial airplane typically falls under HS-8802, which covers aircraft except unmanned types.
- How do I classify a hot air balloon?
- Hot air balloons are classified under HS-8801, which includes balloons and dirigibles.
- What should I check for when classifying aircraft parts?
- Check the specific function and design of the part, as well as any applicable notes in the HS code descriptions.
- Are there special duties for importing spacecraft?
- Yes, importing spacecraft may involve specific duties and regulations, so consult the relevant HS codes and a customs broker.
- Can a customs broker help with aircraft classification?
- Yes, a customs broker can provide guidance on the correct classification and help navigate regulations.
All HS-4 headings in chapter 88 (6)
Each HS-4 links to a dedicated page with plain-English explanation, HS-6 subheadings, and FAQs. Use Browse to open the lookup in heading mode for that line.
8801
Balloons and dirigibles; gliders, hang gliders and other non-powered aircraft.
8802
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 vehicles
8804
Parachutes (including dirigible parachutes and paragliders) and rotochutes; parts thereof and accessories thereto
8805
Aircraft launching gear, deck-arrestor or similar gear, ground flying trainers; parts of the foregoing articles
8806
Unmanned aircraft
8807
Aircraft; parts of goods of heading 8801, 8802 or 8806
Browse first heading (HS-4 8801)
Opens the lookup in heading browse for the first HS-4 block in this chapter (8801). Prefer the table above for a specific HS-4 page with full copy.
Before you file customs documents
Chapter pages on TradeTools are educational summaries, not legal classification determinations. Cross-check candidate codes with official notes, advance rulings where available, and your broker for high-value or borderline goods.
How we classify products explains what TradeTools does (and does not) automate.