Boeing Union Criticizes ‘Final’ Pay Offer Amid Ongoing Strike

The union representing thousands of Boeing workers has voiced strong opposition to the aircraft manufacturer’s latest pay proposal, labeling it a “final” offer.

Boeing’s proposal includes a 30% pay increase over four years, reinstatement of a performance bonus, and improved retirement benefits. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), however, expressed frustration, claiming the offer was presented without prior negotiation, a charge Boeing disputes.

IAM represents over 30,000 Boeing employees, many of whom have been on strike since earlier this month after rejecting a 25% pay increase proposal. The union initially sought a 40% pay raise along with other improvements to employee compensation packages. Nearly 95% of union members voted to reject Boeing’s original offer, and a subsequent 96% approved strike action.

Boeing, under pressure to resolve the strike, which could cost the company billions, made the updated proposal, which also doubles a signing bonus to $6,000. However, IAM criticized the company for bypassing union leadership by sending the offer directly to employees and the media. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the union called this approach “a blatant show of disrespect.”

Despite Boeing’s claims of having bargained in good faith, IAM announced it would not hold a vote on the offer by the company’s proposed deadline. The ongoing strike, which began on September 13, has significantly impacted Boeing’s commercial aircraft production and broader US industry, with Boeing suspending deliveries and furloughing thousands of workers.