Boeing Factory Workers Vote on Strike That Could Halt Aircraft Production
Thousands of Boeing factory workers could go on strike as early as next week, potentially disrupting production of the company's commercial aircraft.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), which represents about 2,500 workers at Boeing's Puget Sound facilities in Washington state, has scheduled a strike authorization vote for July 15. If the vote passes, workers could walk off the job as early as July 25.
The union has been negotiating with Boeing for months over a new contract, but the two sides have been unable to reach an agreement. The main sticking points are wages, benefits, and working conditions.
Boeing has offered a 5% wage increase over three years, but the union is asking for more. The union is also seeking improvements to health care benefits and retirement plans. Boeing has said that it is willing to negotiate, but it has also warned that a strike would be costly for both the company and the workers.
A strike at Boeing would have a significant impact on the company's production. Boeing is the world's largest aircraft manufacturer, and it produces a wide range of commercial and military aircraft. A strike would likely disrupt production of the company's 737, 747, and 787 aircraft.
A strike would also have a ripple effect on the broader economy. Boeing is a major employer in the Puget Sound region, and a strike would likely lead to job losses and economic hardship.
The IAM has said that it is committed to reaching a fair agreement with Boeing, but it is also prepared to strike if necessary. The union has set up a strike fund and has been training workers on how to picket and strike.
Here is a summary of the key points:
- Boeing factory workers are voting on whether to strike.
- The main sticking points are wages, benefits, and working conditions.
- A strike would have a significant impact on Boeing's production.
- A strike would also have a ripple effect on the broader economy.
- The IAM is committed to reaching a fair agreement with Boeing, but it is also prepared to strike if necessary.
Here are some additional resources:
- Seattle Times: Boeing machinists at Puget Sound set strike vote for July 15
- International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM)
- Boeing
Comments