Boeing workers next week will vote on a third labor proposal from the aerospace manufacturer that could end a seven-week work stoppage that has halted production of several commercial aircraft programs.
More than 32,000 Boeing employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) will cast their ballots on 4 November after union leadership and the company struck a tentative agreement on Thursday.
The new offer comes with a 38pc general wage increase (GWI) spread over four years and a $12,000 ratification bonus — both up from 35pc and $7,000, respectively, from Boeing's previous proposal that workers rejected on 24 October.
Sticking points during contract negotiations have centered around pay raises, with workers seeking a 40pc GWI, and the reinstatement of employees' pension plans. The latter is not addressed in the company's latest offer.
Boeing's machinists have been on strike since 13 September, putting a squeeze on the company's finances with output of its flagship 737 MAX aircraft stalled. Production of Boeing's 767 and 777 models also has been disrupted.
If the deal is approved, the earliest workers could return to their jobs would be 6 November, with everybody having to be back by 12 November at the latest, the union said.
