Boeing and union negotiators are set to return to the bargaining table this week after more than 30,000 workers in Seattle and Portland went on strike . The two parties are attempting to end the industrial action, which understandably threatens Boeing’s aircraft production rate. The workers are represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and are responsible for producing the 737 MAX and other Boeing aircraft at its Pacific Northwest facilities.
The strike comes as nearly 95% of the union’s members rejected the planemaker's offer last week. Continuing negotiations this week The US Federal Mediation & Conciliation Service (FMCS) called on federal mediators after speaking to both parties on Friday – less than a day after the workers voted to strike. In a statement obtained by the Associated Press , the FMCS commented last week that negotiations will resume early this week.
“FMCS has been in contact with both IAM and Boeing to support their return to the negotiation table and commends the parties on their willingness to meet and work towards a mutually acceptable resolution.” This was the first time the workers had voted on a full contract in more than a decade, but 94.6% rejected Boeing’s offer and 96% were in favor of a strike, according to Reuters .
Workers began to strike early Friday morning, just after midnight, gathering outside Boeing’s factory in Renton, Washington. The 777X is slated to enter service in 2025. They.