Boeing Machinists Vote Against the New Labor Contract, Extending Strike Beyond 5 Weeks

Boeing machinists strike at Boeing’s facilities in California, Oregon, and Washington will continue, as the new labor contract was rejected by 64% of union members. Over 33,000 machinists represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District Lodge 751 and District W24 will continue the strike, a strike that has been ongoing since September 13, following the rejection of the initial agreement. This tentative agreement (TA), which was facilitated by acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, was rejected by 64% of union members.

Union’s Response

In a joint statement released on October 23, Jon Holden, president of IAM District 751, and Brandon Bryant, president of IAM District W24, made it clear that the negotiating committee did not recommend accepting or rejecting the tentative agreement. Their statement emphasized that after enduring ten years of sacrifices, there is still progress to be made. The union is hopeful that negotiations will resume soon.

“After 10 years of sacrifices, we still have ground to make up, and we’re hopeful to do so by resuming negotiations promptly. This is workplace democracy – and also clear evidence that there are consequences when a company mistreats its workers year after year,” the union leaders stated.

The statement went on to express that Boeing’s machinists are determined to reclaim what they lost after years of stagnant wages and concessions in previous negotiations.

“Ten years of holding workers back, unfortunately, cannot be undone quickly or easily, but we will continue to negotiate in good faith until we have made gains that workers feel adequately make up for what the company took from them in the past,” they added.

Boeing’s Response

Despite the significance of the vote, Boeing has remained tight-lipped on the matter. When approached for a comment by Simple Flying, the company’s spokesperson declined to provide any statement.

Support from the Larger Union Community

Brian Bryant, president of IAM, offered strong support for the two lodges on strike. He made it clear that the entire union, with over 600,000 members across North America, stands behind the Boeing Machinists strike.

“Their fight is our fight – and we support their decision to continue this strike for fairness and dignity for Boeing workers,” Bryant stated.

Bryant also reinforced the desire of the machinists to rectify nearly a decade of stagnant wages and concessionary contracts. He assured that the strike will persist, and that new dates for further negotiations will be proposed to Boeing soon.

Community Support for Striking Workers

As the strike drags on, the machinists are showing no signs of backing down. In an update provided on October 6, IAM District 751 highlighted that its members have secured temporary jobs to maintain the picket lines. The union expressed gratitude to local businesses that have stepped up to provide employment opportunities to the striking machinists, demonstrating the strength of community support.

About Boeing’s Latest Offer

Boeing’s latest contract offer, which was rejected by the union members, showed notable improvements in six key areas over the initial tentative agreement, according to the company’s fact sheet. However, it’s important to note that the company did not compare this offer to what it had previously called its “best and final offer” from September 23.

You can read here about Boeing’s offer:

Boeing Machinists Set to Vote on New Contract Proposal Tomorrow

Kelly Ortberg, Boeing’s new president and chief executive officer (CEO), has repeatedly emphasized the need to reset relations between the company and its machinists. In his remarks during Boeing’s Q3 earnings call, he reiterated his commitment to improving the relationship. However, despite these assurances, the negotiations have remained contentious.

The outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched, as the machinists’ strike continues to impact Boeing’s operations. The union remains firm in its resolve to negotiate in good faith until a satisfactory agreement is reached, while Boeing faces pressure to address the grievances of its workforce.

READ MORE ABOUT BOEING ISSUES

Sources:

Featured image by Jason Redmond | AFP | Getty Images
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Youssef Yahya

Youssef Yahya is the CEO and Founder of Aviation for Aviators, a platform dedicated to the aviation industry. With over 3 years of experience as an aviation writer, Youssef is passionate about sharing his insights on aviation, entrepreneurship, and the broader business landscape. As a Teaching Assistant in Entrepreneurship at Nile University, he also nurtures the next generation of entrepreneurs. When he’s not exploring the skies or business ventures, you can find him saying, ‘Drag your coffee, and let’s talk aviation, entrepreneurship, and football.’

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