The strike by more than 3,200 Boeing defense workers in Missouri and Illinois has entered its second week on Monday, affecting multiple military and commercial aircraft programs. The walkout began on August 4, marking the first strike by this work group since 1996, after members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 voted to reject two contract offers from the company.
The affected facilities, primarily in the St. Louis area, are involved in the assembly and maintenance of F/A-18 Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, F-15 Eagle, T-7A Red Hawk trainer aircraft, and the new F-47 stealth fighter. Production of the MQ-25 Stingray aerial refueling drone in Mascoutah, Illinois, and components for the 777X commercial aircraft has also been suspended.
Boeing’s latest proposal, turned down by workers on August 3, included a 20% general wage increase, a $5,000 ratification bonus, and other benefit improvements. According to Boeing, the package could have amounted to an average total pay increase of about 40%, raising the average IAM 837 machinist salary from $75,000 to over $102,000. The union said the offer fell short of addressing members’ priorities.
Boeing has implemented contingency plans to continue supporting customers with non-striking staff. Negotiations between the company and the union are ongoing, with no announced timeline for a resolution.