Boeing Engineers Vote on Contract to Avert Strike

Approximately 17,000 members of the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) are voting Thursday on a revised contract offer from Boeing. The new proposal includes a 10% guaranteed raise upon ratification and annual guaranteed raises of 4%, resulting in an average 32% increase over four years.

This sweetened offer follows a widespread rejection of a previous proposal in August. While union councils for both the Professional and Technical units now recommend acceptance, some members remain concerned that the raises will not sufficiently offset inflation.

If the membership rejects the proposal, a strike could begin as early as October 7 after current contracts expire. Such a work stoppage would halt certification campaigns for the 777-9 and 737 MAX 10 jetliners and disrupt deliveries, potentially hindering the company's financial recovery. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg stated the company is working hard to avoid a work stoppage.