Over 3,000 Boeing fighter jet workers go on strike after rejecting contract offer

More than 3,200 union members with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837 have gone on strike against Boeing. The workers, who build fighter jets like the F-15, F/A-18, and the MQ-25 drone in Missouri and Illinois, walked out after rejecting a second contract offer. Boeing’s proposed four-year deal included a 40 percent average wage increase, a 20 percent general wage hike, a $5,000 bonus, and better benefits like additional vacation and sick leave. Despite these terms, the union said the offer failed to reflect the workers' value and role in national security.

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Boeing’s management expressed disappointment but said they are prepared, activating a contingency plan involving non-union labor to continue production during the stoppage.

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Union leadership emphasized that Boeing’s workers deserve a stronger contract that acknowledges their critical skills and dedication. Tom Boelling, head of District 837, stated the proposed offer was not enough to meet the expectations of members who play a vital role in U.S. defense manufacturing. This is the second time the group has rejected a similar contract in just one week.

Boeing Defense is currently expanding its facilities in the St. Louis area following a new contract win for the Air Force’s F-47A fighter jet. Despite the ongoing strike, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg appeared unconcerned, referencing last year's seven-week strike by District 751 workers in the Northwest, which concluded with a 38 percent wage increase. Ortberg assured investors that Boeing would manage through the current strike without major disruption to its defense projects or timelines.