Boeing Factory Workers Go on Strike After Rejecting Contract Offer

Boeing factory workers launched a strike on September 13, 2024, after rejecting a contract that would have granted them a 25% wage increase over four years. The strike began promptly at 12:01 a. m. PDT, shortly after the local branch of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers reported that 96% of voting members opposed the proposal. Approximately 33,000 machinists are participating in the strike, with the majority located in Washington state.

This labor action is expected to halt the production of Boeing's best-selling aircraft, although it will not interfere with ongoing commercial flights. The decision to strike underscores the workers' demand for better compensation and reflects broader labor movements across various industries. The union's strong mandate for the work stoppage indicates a significant level of discontent among the workforce. Boeing's management will likely face pressure to negotiate a more favorable agreement as production comes to a standstill. The outcome of this strike could have far-reaching implications for the company and its employees.