NEW YORK — The union representing Boeing factory workers currently on strike in the Pacific Northwest announced that contract negotiations with the company have “broken off” following their latest bargaining session.
In a recent update, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers stated that Boeing “would not engage substantively” on critical issues such as higher wages and the reinstatement of a defined-benefit pension plan that was eliminated a decade ago.
No new negotiation dates have been set after Friday’s session, which involved federal mediators. The union expressed its willingness to continue discussions with the company, whether directly or through mediation.
A statement from Boeing indicated that the company is “prepared to meet at any time,” emphasizing its commitment to good faith bargaining and the desire to reach a swift agreement.
This past Monday, Boeing presented what it called its “best and final” offer, which includes pay increases of 30% over four years. This offer is an improvement from the previously proposed 25%, but still falls short of the union’s original demand for a 40% raise over three years.
Union leaders were frustrated when Boeing publicized its revised offer through the media while imposing a Friday night deadline for ratification. In response to the backlash, Boeing extended the deadline. However, many workers feel that the revised offer is still insufficient.
The strike, involving nearly 33,000 machinists, is now in its third week and has resulted in the halt of production for Boeing’s best-selling airplanes. While airline flights are not disrupted at this time, the strike adds pressure to a company already grappling with multiple financial, legal, and operational challenges this year.
