Pratt & Whitney Reaches Tentative Agreement With Striking Machinists In Connecticut

After nearly three weeks of striking, Pratt & Whitney and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have reached a tentative agreement addressing key union concerns such as wages, job security, retirement benefits, and health care coverage. The strike, involving about 3,000 employees at Connecticut facilities, was the first in over 20 years and significantly impacted Pratt & Whitney, a major manufacturer for both commercial and military aircraft engines. The union members are scheduled to vote on the revised contract on May 27, which will determine whether the strike ends. The work stoppage became contentious when Pratt & Whitney suspended health insurance for striking employees, drawing criticism from Connecticut's Attorney General. Pratt & Whitney emphasized its commitment to maintaining high-skilled manufacturing jobs in Connecticut and resumed negotiations as the strike neared its fourth week. The agreement marks a potential resolution to the labor dispute that had threatened to delay engine deliveries for major aerospace clients.