Early Friday, Boeing aircraft assembly workers in the Seattle area walked off the job after rejecting a proposed contract that would have raised wages by 25% over four years. The strike began at 12:01 a.m. PDT, just hours after 94.6% of voting members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) rejected the tentative deal, with 96% voting in favor of the walkout.
While the rejected contract would have boosted the average machinist salary from $75,608 to $106,350 over four years, union members were dissatisfied. They had initially demanded a 40% pay raise over three years and the restoration of traditional pensions, which were removed a decade ago. Although the union secured increased 401(k) contributions from Boeing, workers remain frustrated, citing the rising cost of living and insufficient wage increases.
Outside Boeing’s Renton factory, workers held signs like “Historic contract my ass” and “Have you seen the damn housing prices?” as car horns blared in support. Boeing responded to the strike by stating it was ready to resume negotiations, acknowledging that the tentative agreement was not acceptable to workers.
The strike comes at a critical time for Boeing, which has suffered significant financial losses and is trailing behind European rival Airbus. CEO Kelly Ortberg, appointed six weeks ago to turn the company around, warned that the strike would jeopardize Boeing’s recovery. Despite Ortberg’s plea for cooperation, workers remain resolute, frustrated by years without raises and what they view as an insufficient offer.
Union President Jon Holden, who announced the vote results, had recommended approval of the contract, citing uncertainties about securing a better deal through a strike. However, many workers feel the company can afford more, pointing to the billions Boeing stands to lose if the strike persists.
The strike could last into mid-November, with analysts predicting Boeing may lose up to $3.5 billion in cash flow. Union leaders have noted key wins, including Boeing’s promise to build its next plane in the Puget Sound area, but the broader dissatisfaction reflects lingering bitterness over past concessions on pensions and health care.
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