Boeing Strike: Machinists Vote to Authorize Strike

What Happened?

On July 15, 2023, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at Boeing voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike. The vote, which passed with 90% approval, is a sign of growing frustration among workers over wages, benefits, and working conditions.

Why Are Workers Striking?

Workers are striking for several reasons. First, they are demanding a 20% wage increase over three years. They say that their current wages are not keeping up with inflation and that they are falling behind other workers in the aerospace industry.

Second, workers are seeking improvements to their benefits package. They want the company to increase its contributions to their health care and retirement plans. They also want the company to provide more paid time off.

Third, workers are concerned about working conditions at Boeing. They say that the company is pushing them to work longer hours and that they are not getting enough time off to rest and recover.

What Does This Mean for Boeing?

The strike could have a significant impact on Boeing's operations. The company is currently in the middle of ramping up production of its 737 MAX aircraft, and a strike could delay deliveries of the plane. The strike could also lead to higher costs for Boeing, as the company would have to pay replacement workers and make concessions to workers in order to end the strike.

What's Next?

The IAM and Boeing are scheduled to meet for negotiations on July 25. If the two sides are unable to reach an agreement, the strike could begin as early as July 26.