A union representing more than 3,200 Boeing defense workers in Missouri will vote on October 26 on a revised contract offer from the company, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) said Thursday, as a strike that began in early August approaches its third month.
The latest offer includes small adjustments to Boeing’s previous proposal, allowing workers more time before returning to their posts and removing a clause that would have permitted non-union employees to perform union duties for up to 30 days after the strike ends. The union’s bargaining committee did not issue a recommendation on the offer.
The strike, which began on August 4, initially followed the rejection of Boeing’s four-year offer that included a 20% pay raise and a $5,000 bonus. A month later, the two sides reached a tentative deal with the help of a federal mediator — a five-year proposal offering a 24% raise and a $4,000 signing bonus — which temporarily paused the work stoppage. However, the agreement ultimately failed to win lasting approval from the union membership, and workers resumed strike action soon after.Boeing’s defense operations in St. Louis produce fighter aircraft including the F-15 and F/A-18, as well as munitions for U.S. and allied forces. The company had relied on non-union employees and contractors to sustain limited production during the strike, though output on several programs slowed.
Union members have been pressing for terms similar to those secured by Boeing’s Seattle-area workforce in 2024, particularly regarding retirement contributions and long-term benefits. Earlier this month, 90% of workers voted in favor of a separate four-year proposal drawn up by the union that Boeing declined to negotiate.
The upcoming vote will determine whether the latest changes are enough to end one of Boeing’s longest defense labor disputes in recent years.