Boeing strike ends after more than 7 weeks

On Monday Nov. 4, 2024, 33,000 workers at Boeing, members of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Districts 751 and W24, voted to ratify a new union contract with the company that union leaders say “sets a new standard for compensation and wages for aerospace industry workers.”

The deal followed a strike lasting nearly two months by the workers in Washington state, Oregon, and California.

Union leaders said 59% of members who cast ballots approved the Boeing’s fourth formal offer and the third put to a vote. The union recommended approval of the company’s latest contract proposal, dated Oct. 31.

Union leaders said machinists must return to their jobs no later than Nov. 12 and they could return as early as Nov. 6.

Contract highlights:

• 38% general wage increase over four years – 13%, 9%, 9%, 7% (43.65% compounded over the life of the agreement)

• $12,000 ratification bonus

• 401(k) employer match of 100% up to 8%

• Special company retirement contribution of 4% into 401(k) maintained

• New long-term disability plan; improvement to short term disability plan

• Improved overtime rules

• Job security provisions

• Increased minimum rates that increase with cost-of-living adjustment increases

The union did not get reinstatement of a pension plan.

Boeing previously reported machinist pay will average $119,309 at the end of the contract.

Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg, said, “While the past few months have been difficult for all of us, we are all part of the same team. We will only move forward by listening and working together. There is much work ahead to return to the excellence that made Boeing an iconic company.”

Jon Holden, President of IAM District 751 and Brandon Bryant, President of IAM District W24, said in a joint statement following the vote:

“We are ready to help Boeing change direction and return to building the highest quality and safest airplanes in the world. Our members are critical to that mission, and now have a stronger voice in the decision-making process to ensure those needed improvements are made.”

Union leaders credited U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su with helping Boeing and workers reach the agreement.