Boeing Workers Approve Strike Authorization Amid Contract Talks

In a decisive move, Boeing employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) overwhelmingly approved a strike authorization vote on Wednesday, intensifying the pressure in ongoing contract negotiations with the aerospace giant.

Nearly 99.9% of the IAMAW members under the current agreement voted in favor of the strike plan. This includes more than 32,000 Boeing workers in Washington state and Portland, Oregon, represented by IAMAW District 751 and District W24. The union is demanding higher wages, enhanced health care benefits, and improved retirement plans, among other changes.

This vote is a procedural requirement under the IAMAW's constitution, granting union leaders the authority to call for a strike if a new labor agreement is not reached before the existing contract expires on September 12. Boeing confirmed this development today.

The authorization also enables union members to receive strike benefits without delay should a work stoppage occur, according to the IAMAW.

For a strike to commence on September 13, Boeing employees would need to reject the company's final offer and then approve a second strike sanction vote.

Boeing, which manufactures the 737 MAX, 767, and 777X aircraft exclusively at its two Washington state facilities, remains optimistic that an agreement can be reached. The company emphasized the need to balance employee demands with business realities.