Boeing Machinists Vote on New Union-Backed Contract
Over 32,000 striking Boeing machinists are set to vote on a revised union-backed contract proposal this Monday, which could end a seven-week work stoppage that has disrupted Boeing’s aircraft production. This vote marks the third time machinists are weighing an offer from Boeing, with union leaders emphasizing that this latest proposal may be the best option workers can secure.
Details of the New Contract Proposal
The revised proposal includes a 38% wage increase over four years, up from Boeing’s previous offer of 35%, which machinists rejected last month. The initial offer in September, which led to the strike, proposed a 25% raise, while the union had originally pushed for approximately 40%. Under the terms of this proposal, average machinist salaries are projected to reach $119,309 by the end of the contract, addressing some of the concerns over the high cost of living in the Seattle area where most of Boeing’s operations are based.
Despite the improved offer, the union, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 751, has warned members that this proposal might be as good as it gets. In a statement released last Wednesday, the union urged workers to consider the offer, stating, “In every negotiation and strike, there is a point where we have extracted everything that we can in bargaining and by withholding our labor. We are at that point now and risk a regressive or lesser offer in the future.”
Union Leaders Encourage Members to Approve
Ahead of the vote, union leaders have reiterated the importance of locking in these gains. On Saturday, IAM District 751 told members, “This is truly the time to lock in these gains and work to build more in future negotiations. You can confidently declare victory, vote yes for this agreement, and build on this for generations to come.” This message reflects the union’s strategy to secure immediate improvements while setting a foundation for future contract negotiations.
Boeing Leadership Calls for Unity
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, who assumed the role in August, also urged machinists to return to work, emphasizing the impact of the strike on the company’s production and finances. In a statement on Friday, Ortberg addressed Boeing staff, saying, “I know the strike has been difficult for you as well as for our customers, suppliers, communities, and all who work at Boeing. It’s time we all come back together and focus on rebuilding the business and delivering the world’s best airplanes. There are a lot of people depending on us.”
Financial Strain and the Need for Resolution
The strike has been particularly challenging for Boeing as it works to recover from recent production delays. The work stoppage has hindered the company’s turnaround efforts, adding strain to an already struggling production schedule. Boeing recently raised more than $20 billion to strengthen its finances, aiming to weather the impacts of halted production and the rising costs associated with the strike.
As machinists prepare to cast their votes, both Boeing leadership and union representatives hope for a resolution that allows production to resume, supporting the company’s broader recovery plans. A simple majority vote in favor of the contract would end the strike, enabling Boeing to focus on its goals for operational stability and long-term growth.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cnbc.com
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