Boeing aircraft manufacturing employees intend to initiate a work stoppage, focusing on jet fighters' production.
In a significant development, over 3,200 union workers at Boeing facilities in Missouri and Illinois have commenced a strike as of early August 2025. These workers, primarily involved in the assembly of fighter jets, have rejected a four-year labor agreement proposed by Boeing [1].
The rejection came despite the contract offering a substantial average wage increase of around 40%. This increase was comprised of a 20% general wage hike, a $5,000 ratification bonus, and additional vacation and sick leave benefits [1]. Union representatives from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers have emphasized the importance of these workers, who build critical defense aircraft, and the need for a contract that ensures security for their families and recognizes their specialized skills [1].
Boeing has expressed disappointment at the rejection and has contingency plans in place to continue operations using non-union labor [1]. The strike could potentially disrupt fighter jet assembly operations at Boeing facilities in the two states, leading to possible delays in delivery schedules of military aircraft [1].
The disruption could also affect the output quality or pace, as Boeing relies on these workers to maintain production [1]. Moreover, broader implications for U.S. defense readiness could arise if production bottlenecks persist [1].
This labor dispute comes amidst challenging times for Boeing. The company has been struggling after two Boeing 737 Max airplanes and one Dreamliner plane crashed, resulting in 346 and at least 260 deaths respectively [1]. In June, an Air India Dreamliner plane operated by Boeing crashed, killing at least 260 people [1].
Despite the rejection, the latest proposal from Boeing featured a 40% average wage growth, a significant offer that reflects the importance of the work being done [1]. However, the primary issue on alternative work schedules was not resolved in the latest proposal [1]. Union leaders had previously recommended approving the offer, calling it a "landmark agreement" and stating that it would improve medical, pension, and overtime benefits [1].
Union members, represented by Sam Cicinelli, Midwest territory general vice president for the union, have stated that they deserve a contract that secures their families and recognizes their expertise [1]. Dan Gillian, Boeing Air Dominance vice president, expressed disappointment over the rejection of the offer [1].
As the strike continues, Boeing has implemented a contingency plan to ensure that a non-striking workforce can continue supporting customers [1]. The workers, who build aircraft and defense systems for Boeing, are planning to go on strike starting Monday at midnight [1]. The vote to reject the modified labor agreement followed a previous rejection of an offer from Boeing last week [1].
[1] - Source: Reuters, August 2025.
- The rejection of Boeing's offer, which included a significant 40% average wage increase and additional benefits, by union workers in the defense industry could cause potential delays in the production of fighter jets and affect the output quality or pace, potentially impacting U.S. defense readiness.
- Amidst the ongoing strike, Boeing has turned to non-union labor to continue operations in the aerospace sector, a move that Union representatives from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers have argued undermines the importance of their specialized skills and the need for a contract that ensures security for their families.
