Written By Lisa Murimi
Striking Boeing workers have rejected a new offer from the company, which included a 35% pay increase over four years.Â
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced that 64% of its members voted against the proposed deal, continuing a walkout that began on September 13 after the rejection of a previous offer.
The strike involves more than 30,000 employees and has caused significant disruptions at Boeing, with production slowing dramatically.
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg warned that the company is at a “crossroads” as losses surged to approximately $6 billion.
Ortberg acknowledged the firm is struggling with debt and customer dissatisfaction, and that restarting operations after the strike ends will be difficult.
Union representatives stated the workers have endured years of sacrifices and are hopeful for further negotiations.
They highlighted that the rejection demonstrates the consequences of long-term mistreatment of employees.
Boeing has declined to comment on the rejection of the latest offer.
This is the second time workers have formally turned down a deal, with a previous offer being rejected by 95% of union members last month.
The ongoing strike is costing Boeing an estimated $100 million per day and is affecting suppliers like Spirit AeroSystems, which has already announced furloughs.
