Boeing Workers Strike Over Contract Rejection

Over 30,000 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have initiated a strike against Boeing after overwhelmingly rejecting a proposed contract that included a 25% pay increase. The decision to strike, which saw a 96% vote in favor, comes amid Boeing's ongoing struggles with production delays and a tarnished reputation following previous safety incidents. Union leaders have expressed that the rejected agreement did not meet their demands for a 40% raise and better pension reforms, leading to accusations of unfair labor practices against Boeing. Despite IAM leadership's previous endorsement of the deal, workers voiced their dissatisfaction, emphasizing the need for respect and better treatment. Boeing has acknowledged the discontent, stating it is committed to resetting its relationship with employees and is ready to negotiate a new agreement. This strike marks the first significant industrial action by the IAM since 2008, severely impacting Boeing's production of its 737 MAX aircraft.