Boeing Machinists Vote on Contract Offer as Strike Continues

Union Members to Decide on Company's Latest Proposal

Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) began voting Monday on Boeing's latest contract offer, which could end a nearly nine-week-long strike that has disrupted production of the company's commercial aircraft.

Strike Enters Ninth Week

The strike began on Sept. 1 after IAM members rejected Boeing's initial contract offer, which included a 2% annual wage increase and a $1,000 signing bonus. The union has been seeking a 5% annual wage increase and a $5,000 signing bonus, as well as improvements to health care and retirement benefits.

The strike has had a significant impact on Boeing's operations, with the company reporting a loss of $1 billion in revenue during the first six weeks of the strike. The company has also been forced to delay deliveries of some aircraft, including the 737 MAX and the 787 Dreamliner.

Boeing's Latest Offer

Boeing's latest offer includes a 3% annual wage increase and a $3,000 signing bonus. The company has also agreed to improve health care benefits and to make some changes to the pension plan.

The union has not yet released its recommendation on the offer, but IAM leaders have said they believe it is a fair compromise that meets the needs of their members.

Voting Begins

Voting on the contract offer began Monday and will continue through Wednesday. The results of the vote are expected to be announced on Thursday.

If the contract offer is approved, the strike will end and IAM members will return to work. If the offer is rejected, the strike will continue.

Conclusion

The outcome of the vote on Boeing's latest contract offer is uncertain. However, it is clear that both the company and the union are eager to end the strike and get back to business.