Boeing Machinists’ Strike Continues as Talks Fail to Resolve Key Issues
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced that recent mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing machinists’ strike at Boeing have ended without an agreement. Despite the involvement of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Services (FMCS) in the discussions held on September 27, 2024, both parties failed to reach a consensus, leaving the strike unresolved with no further negotiation dates scheduled.
The strike, which has now become Boeing’s largest labor disruption in 16 years, centers around key issues such as wages, pension benefits, and paid time off (PTO). The union’s demands include a substantial 40% pay raise and the restoration of a pension plan that was discontinued a decade ago. According to statements from IAM District 751, the discussions were straightforward but yielded no progress on these critical points, particularly the pension issue.
“The company remains adamant that it will not unfreeze the defined benefit plan,” stated the union. Additionally, Boeing has shown little willingness to move on other major concerns expressed by the membership, which include higher wages, faster wage progression, and increased PTO allowances.
Despite the impasse, the machinists have expressed their willingness to continue negotiations, whether directly or through mediated talks. “We will continue to fight for the issues that are important,” the union affirmed, signaling ongoing commitment to their goals.
Boeing’s last proposal to the striking workers, made just days before the failed mediation on September 23, included a 30% wage increase over the next four years along with additional bonuses. However, this offer was rejected by the workers, indicating the depth of the divide over the pension plan and other key employment terms.
As the strike continues with no clear end in sight, both Boeing and its workforce remain at a critical juncture, with significant implications for production schedules and company operations.
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