Boeing’s largest employee union has voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, raising the stakes in ongoing contract negotiations.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 751 pushing for higher wages and improved working conditions.
The union represents around 32,000 members.
The vote, which passed by nearly 99.9 percent, signals the union’s readiness to walk out if their demands are not met.
Jon Holden, IAM District 751 President, said: “We don’t want to strike — but we’re ready and willing to do so to bring home the best aerospace contract our members have ever seen.
“There is no Boeing without us, and we have what it takes to build this company back to the level it was.”
Negotiations, which began in March, aim to replace the current agreement expiring on September 12.
Should a strike occur, it would require another membership vote.
Boeing deals with several issues, including investigations and controversies over safety and manufacturing integrity.
Recent incidents, such as a 737 Max door panel blowout and legal troubles related to previous crashes, have further complicated the company’s situation.
“There is no Boeing without us, and we have what it takes to build this company back to the level it was.”
The union advocates for a major pay increase and the restoration of a traditional pension program, which was eliminated in 2014.
One of the union’s priorities is ensuring the next new airplane is built in Washington state, a critical point given Boeing’s historical threats to move production elsewhere.
While Boeing has not disclosed plans for a new aircraft, the union remains focused on maintaining production in Washington.
Boeing faces a tough decision: meeting union demands could exacerbate its financial strain while playing hardball risks a strike and further production disruptions.
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Past strikes, like the two-month walkout in 2008, resulted in significant financial losses and operational slowdowns.
Recent victories for other aviation industry unions have set a precedent.
For example, American Airlines pilots secured a 46 percent raise, and Southwest Airlines flight attendants won a more than 20 percent raise.
Additionally, IAM members at Spirit AeroSystems achieved a 23.5 percent pay increase and other benefits, demonstrating the union’s effectiveness.
Rallies and actions, such as a recent gathering at T-Mobile Park, have demonstrated the membership’s unity and determination.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes, said: “We are aligned and engaged in shaping the future of this company.”
