Boeing’s Future Hangs in the Balance as Machinists Prepare to Vote
As the clock ticks down, Boeing’s 32,000 striking machinists are set to cast their ballots for the third time on a contract proposal that could put an end to the seven-week work stoppage. The fate of the company’s turnaround year hangs precariously in the balance.
A New Proposal Emerges
The latest offer on the table includes a 38% raise over four years, a significant increase from the 35% proposed earlier and rejected by workers. This deal marks a notable shift from the initial 25% raise offered in September, which sparked the strike. The union had originally pushed for pay increases of around 40%.
A Warning from the Union
In a statement, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 751 cautioned that this deal might be as good as it gets. “We are at a point where we have extracted everything that we can in bargaining and by withholding our labor,” they warned. The union urged workers to “lock in these gains and work to build more in future negotiations.”
Boeing CEO Weighs In
Kelly Ortberg, who took the reins in August, appealed to workers to return to work, acknowledging the difficulties faced by all parties involved. “It’s time we all come back together and focus on rebuilding the business and delivering the world’s best airplanes,” he said.
The Stakes Are High
Boeing has raised over $20 billion to shore up its finances, but the strike has dealt a significant blow to its production. A resolution is crucial to getting the company back on track.
What’s at Stake for Workers?
Machinist pay is set to average $119,309 at the end of this contract proposal, but workers have expressed concerns about the soaring cost of living in the Seattle area, where most of Boeing’s aircraft are produced. Will this deal be enough to alleviate their concerns and bring an end to the strike?
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