Skilled Boeing workers walk out amid wage, work conditions standoff

Approximately 3,200 skilled Boeing workers engaged in fighter jet production have commenced a strike, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced.

The industrial action began at midnight Central Daylight Time, reflecting deep discontent over the company’s latest labor agreement proposal, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The striking employees hail from Boeing facilities in St. Louis, St. Charles, Missouri, and Mascoutah, Illinois. The workforce voted overwhelmingly to reject a modified four-year labor contract, underscoring their dissatisfaction despite a previously offered 20% wage increase over the same period.

In a statement posted on X, the union emphasized the core issue: “3,200 highly-skilled IAM Union members at Boeing went on strike at midnight because enough is enough. This is about respect and dignity, not empty promises.”

“IAM District 837 members deserve a contract that reflects their skill, dedication, and the critical role they play in our nation's defence,” IAM District 837 leader Tom Boelling further stressed.

This decisive rejection follows a weeklong cooling-off period during which union members evaluated the employer’s latest offer. The earlier proposal—deemed a “landmark agreement” by union leadership—promised improvements in wages, medical coverage, pension benefits, and overtime provisions. However, members ultimately voted against the revised contract, signaling broader concerns about job security and work conditions.

Sam Cicinelli, Midwest territory general vice president for the IAM, underscored the importance of the workforce’s contribution: “IAM District 837 members build the aircraft and defence systems that keep our country safe. They deserve nothing less than a contract that keeps their families secure and recognizes their unmatched expertise.”

Boeing’s management expressed disappointment over the rejection. Dan Gillian, Boeing Air Dominance vice president and general manager, remarked, “We're disappointed our employees rejected an offer that featured 40% average wage growth and resolved their primary issue on alternative work schedules.” He confirmed that Boeing is “prepared for a strike and have fully implemented our contingency plan to ensure our non-striking workforce can continue supporting our customers.”

The strike comes amid a challenging period for Boeing, which continues to grapple with the aftermath of multiple tragic crashes involving its aircraft—the 737 Max disasters in Indonesia and Ethiopia, and the recent Dreamliner crash operated by Air India. Despite these setbacks, Boeing reported improved financial results in its second quarter, narrowing losses to $611 million from $1.44 billion the previous year.

By Vafa Guliyeva