Mon Sep 23 21:16:01 UTC 2024: ## Boeing Makes ‘Best and Final’ Offer to Striking Machinists, Strike Enters Second Week
**SEATTLE, WA** – In an effort to end the ongoing strike by roughly 33,000 union machinists, Boeing has presented what it calls its “best and final” offer, including a 30% pay increase over four years. The strike, which began on September 13th, has entered its second week.
The offer, announced Monday, represents a significant increase from the previous 25% raise that was rejected by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The proposal would see average annual pay rise from $75,608 to $111,155 by the end of the four-year contract.
Boeing’s offer is contingent upon the union ratifying the contract by Friday night. It includes an initial pay raise of 12% followed by three annual increases of 6% each. The company has also doubled its ratification bonus to $6,000 and plans to maintain annual productivity-based bonuses.
However, the union is demanding a 40% increase and the reinstatement of traditional pension plans, a key sticking point that led to the machinists’ overwhelming rejection of the previous contract.
The strike has already had a significant impact on Boeing’s operations, with production of key aircraft lines like the 737, 767, and 777 halted. While work on the 787 continues with nonunion employees in South Carolina, the company has faced mounting financial pressure.
In response, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg announced last week that the company would begin furloughing employees to conserve cash, affecting tens of thousands of workers.
The strike continues as both sides remain entrenched in their positions. The outcome will have major implications for Boeing, its employees, and the wider aerospace industry.
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