Boeing Faces Strike Decision by 33,000 Assembly Workers

Boeing awaits the decision of 33,000 aircraft assembly workers on whether to strike after voting on a contract offer with a 25% pay raise over four years. A potential walkout could start Friday, impacting Boeing's production and finances but not causing flight cancellations. Workers remain divided on the contract terms.

Boeing is bracing for the outcome of a critical vote on Thursday, which will determine whether 33,000 aircraft assembly workers, mainly in Seattle, will go on strike and halt production of the company's flagship planes.

The workers, represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, are voting on a contract that offers a 25% pay raise over four years. If the contract is rejected and two-thirds vote to strike, a work stoppage will begin at 12:01 a.m. PDT on Friday.

While a strike wouldn't directly affect airline passengers, it would further tarnish Boeing's reputation and hurt its finances during a challenging year for the company. New CEO Kelly Ortberg stressed that a strike would jeopardize shared recovery efforts and customer trust.

(With inputs from agencies.)