Boeing workers reject a proposed deal, triggering a strike. The union members voted overwhelmingly against the agreement, with 95% opposing it.
Over 30,000 workers in the Seattle and Portland areas will go on strike from midnight Pacific Time on Friday. This walkout dealt another blow to Boeing, struggling to repair its reputation after safety issues and financial losses.
The rejected deal included a 25% pay rise over four years. However, union members demanded a 40% pay rise and other improvements.
Boeing’s new CEO, Kelly Ortberg, urges workers to accept the deal. He warns that a strike will harm the company’s recovery. Despite this, union members vote to reject the agreement and strike.
Boeing faces challenging times, with financial losses, safety issues, and production slowdowns. The company recently pleaded guilty to a fraud charge and paid a $244m fine related to the fatal crashes of two 737 Max planes.
The strike impacted Boeing’s production lines, which had already slowed down due to a 737 Max production cap. Airline CEOs with 737 Max orders watch the situation closely.
The union and Boeing must return to the negotiating table to reach a new agreement. The 2008 contract, extended in 2014, is nearing its expiration date. The strike begins at midnight on Friday.
As the strike begins, Boeing’s future remains uncertain. The company must address worker concerns and safety issues to recover. The duration of the strike will impact Boeing’s financial losses and reputation. Union members remain committed to their demands, seeking fair compensation and benefits. The standoff continues, with no clear end in sight.
