Boeing Workers Stand Firm: Strike Continues, Deal Rejected

Boeing factory workers have voted to continue their strike, rejecting a proposed contract offering a 35% wage increase over four years. Union leaders are eager to resume negotiations, as over 30,000 machinists halt production of major jet programs, demanding better terms after a decade of sacrifices.

Boeing factory workers dealt a significant blow to investor and management expectations by voting against a proposed contract on Wednesday. Despite the offer of a 35% wage increase over four years, 64% of voters opposed the deal, choosing to extend a strike that has already lasted more than five weeks.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers expressed readiness to return to the negotiating table. The union is determined to secure a more favorable contract than the one signed in 2014, which ended traditional pensions under the pressure of potential production moves by Boeing.

The strike, affecting over 30,000 machinists, has stalled production on Boeing's prominent 737 MAX, 767, and 777 programs. Employees remain unsatisfied with past agreements, demanding better terms, and expressing confidence in their negotiating position, evidenced by the vocal opposition among workers and on social media.

(With inputs from agencies.)