Boeing employees vote for strike: Production set to halt

The employees of the American aircraft manufacturer Boeing have decided by a clear majority to go on strike. The union, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, announced that 94.6 percent of those voting rejected the proposed contract and 96 percent voted in favor of the strike. The contract was supposed to allow a 25 percent salary increase over four years but failed to meet the union's demand for a 40 percent salary increase and the reintroduction of traditional pensions. The strike by 33,000 machinists begins on Friday at one minute past midnight, significantly impacting the production of Boeing's bestsellers like the 737 Max, the 777, and the 767. This work stoppage could further strain Boeing's reputation and financial situation, as the company has lost over $25 billion in the past six years and has fallen behind its European competitor Airbus. Kelly Ortberg, Boeing's new CEO, made last-minute attempts to reach an agreement. He emphasized that a strike would jeopardize Boeing's recovery and further undermine customer trust. However, the employees, who had made numerous concessions on pensions and healthcare benefits since 2008, showed little interest in these arguments. Union members also expressed their dissatisfaction on social media, demanding higher wages. In response, Boeing had announced plans to build the next new aircraft in the Puget Sound area if the contract were ratified. Nevertheless, the union stated that these promises were insufficient to offset the spiraling decline in wages and working conditions. For Boeing's management, the question remains as to how long the strike will last and what measures need to be taken to reach an agreement that ensures both the company's financial stability and employee satisfaction.