Boeing factory workers in Seattle have voted against the company’s latest contract offer, leading to a six-week strike that has halted production of the company’s popular jetliners. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers rejected the offer, citing continued sacrifices and the need to resume negotiations for fair treatment.
The rejected offer included pay raises of 35% over four years, an increase from the previous offer of 25% over the same period. Union members are demanding a 40% pay boost over three years and the restoration of a traditional pension plan that was frozen a decade ago.
The strike, which started on Sept. 13, has cost Boeing over $6 billion in the third quarter and deprived the company of cash from delivering new planes to airlines. CEO Kelly Ortberg acknowledged the need for a culture change within Boeing and expressed a commitment to address labor relations and rebuild trust with employees.
Despite Ortberg’s plans to revive Boeing, the company is facing challenges, including a large debt load and continued losses. Boeing has not had a profitable year since 2018, and its reputation has been marred by safety concerns following crashes of its 737 Max jetliners.
The strike, now an early test for Ortberg’s leadership, is impacting thousands of Boeing employees, some of whom have spent decades working for the company and are demanding fair treatment, including better wages and pension benefits. With Boeing’s financial situation and reputation at stake, the resolution of the strike will be crucial for the company’s future success.
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Boeing labor strike continues as workers refuse latest contract offer
