The mechanics have been on strike since September 13.
RENTON, Wash. – The standoff between Boeing and 33,000 striking mechanics continues.
Negotiations were halted during recent negotiations between the aircraft manufacturer and the International Association of Machinists. Union I posted about it on social mediaAgain demanding a wage increase and the return of pensions.
This stagnation comes after the union leadership and its members rejected the company’s latest offer, which they considered “the best and final offer.”
“We know that history helps you prevent making mistakes in the future,” said strike mechanic Stephen Chen. “Look at history. We lost our pensions in 2014.”
Boeing The “best and last” offer. Includes the following:
- 30% wage increase over four years
- $6,000 validation bonus
- Performance bonuses have been reinstated
- 100% match for 401(k) contributions up to 8%.
The company set a deadline of September 27 to vote on the bid, but IAM leadership and members were angry, criticizing Boeing for not following the proper channels to share the bid.
“People need to know what’s going on,” Chen said. “We should not find out about offers through the media.
Boeing backed away from the deadline but would like to see the union vote on the deal as soon as possible.
The union previously said its goals include a 40% wage increase over the life of the new contract, reinstating the pension program and improving health care options.
Economic analysts estimate that the strike cost Boeing more than half a billion dollars in revenue.
To cut costs, the company furloughed thousands of non-union workers. CEO Kelly Ortberg implemented furloughs for one week out of four until the strike ended. Executive salaries were also reduced by 25%. The company issued a hiring freeze and travel restrictions.
Boeing shared the following statement regarding the ongoing strike on Sunday.
“We are committed to resetting our relationship with our representative employees and negotiating in good faith and want to reach an agreement as soon as possible. We are ready to meet at any time.”
“Devoted student. Bacon advocate. Beer scholar. Troublemaker. Falls down a lot. Typical coffee enthusiast.”