Boeing Faces Potential Strike as West Coast Workers Vote on Controversial Contract

Boeing’s West Coast factory workers started voting on a contentious new contract, with a potential strike looming. The outcome will test new CEO Kelly Ortberg’s leadership amid production delays and financial struggles. Workers demand better wages and benefits, threatening further disruption in the aerospace giant's operations.

Boeing's U.S. West Coast factory workers initiated voting on Thursday on a contentious new contract and potential strike, compounding pressure on the planemaker grappling with chronic production delays and rising debt. A strike, potentially starting Friday, would be an early challenge for new CEO Kelly Ortberg, tasked with restoring faith in the company after a near-recent incident involving a Boeing 737 MAX.

Approximately 30,000 workers producing Boeing's 737 MAX, 767, and 777 jets in Seattle and Portland are participating in their first full contract vote in 16 years. Polling will conclude at 6 p.m. PT, with results disclosed in the evening, according to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). A strike, if approved, could begin at midnight.

The proposed contract includes a 25% general wage increase, a $3,000 signing bonus, and a commitment to build Boeing's next commercial jet in Seattle, contingent on launch within the contract's four-year span. Despite IAM leadership's recommendation to accept the deal, workers have expressed dissatisfaction, advocating for a 40% pay increase and critiquing the loss of annual bonuses. Protests have erupted, with workers demanding fair compensation and improved conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)