Over 3,200 Boeing Defense Workers Reject Contract Offer Extending Strike

Boeing defense workers at three Midwest plants have rejected the company's latest contract offer for the fourth time since late July, extending a strike that began in August and now spans nearly three months. Approximately 3,200 union members, represented by the International Association of Machinists (IAM), demand better wages, retirement benefits, and a larger ratification bonus, which they argue Boeing has failed to adequately address despite several proposals. The strike affects production of military aircraft including the F-15 and F-18 fighter jets, T-7 Red Hawk training jets, and MQ-25 drones, posing challenges to Boeing's defense operations. Boeing maintains that its offers, including proposed wage increases and contract terms, are competitive and has contingency plans to mitigate production disruption, while criticizing the union's rejection of voting on certain proposals. Financially, Boeing faces pressures with negative profitability margins and an Altman Z-Score indicating distress risk, compounding challenges amid ongoing labor disputes. Both sides remain at an impasse with union leadership emphasizing workers’ priorities have been overlooked and Boeing urging acceptance to resume production promptly.