Seattle, Washington – Thousands of Boeing workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have shown clear disinterest in the company’s latest pay offer. The survey conducted by IAM revealed that the majority of its members found Boeing’s proposed 30% pay raise over four years to be inadequate. This comes after Boeing issued a new offer to the striking workers earlier in the week, which included reinstating a performance bonus, enhanced retirement benefits, and a one-time $6,000 bonus for agreeing to a new pay deal.
IAM expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing’s approach, stating that the company had presented the offer directly to union members and the media without proper communication with the union representatives. Moreover, the deadline given by Boeing for the ratification of the offer was deemed insufficient by IAM to organize a vote among its members. Boeing, on the other hand, refuted the claim that they had not informed IAM representatives about the offer and assured that the union would be given more time and support to conduct the vote.
The ongoing strike, which started on September 13 with over 30,000 Boeing workers participating, has already proven to be a significant challenge for the aviation giant. The rejection of the initial 25% pay rise offer by union members led to the current strike action, impacting the production of key aircraft models like the 737 Max and 777. IAM had initially sought a 40% pay increase along with other improvements to workers’ packages, further complicating negotiations between the union and Boeing.
The standoff between the two sides not only threatens to cost Boeing billions of dollars but also exacerbates the existing crisis facing the company. With tens of thousands of employees already facing layoffs and suspensions, finding a resolution to the strike becomes crucial for both Boeing and the striking workers. The pressure remains on both IAM and Boeing to come to a mutually beneficial agreement to end the strike and resume normal operations.