This story at a glance…

1. Boeing machinists rejected a new contract, extending their strike.

2. The offer included raises and bonuses but no pension restoration.

3. Boeing has lost $6 billion, with 737 production on hold.

4. Negotiations may resume, but no deal is in sight.

Boeing Machinists Reject Contract, Strike Continues

Boeing's machinists have decided they’re not ready to head back to work just yet. On Wednesday, 64% of union workers voted to reject Boeing's latest contract offer, keeping the picket lines active and production of the company’s popular 737 planes at a standstill. The strike, now stretching over five weeks, continues to rattle the aerospace giant, which has already announced layoffs and furloughs for thousands of employees.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) shared the news on social media, making it clear that the strike will carry on at all picket locations. Meanwhile, union leaders expressed cautious optimism, hoping to reopen talks with Boeing and work out a better deal for their members.

What’s in (and out of) the Contract?
The rejected offer was packed with some attractive perks: a nearly 40% raise over four years, a $7,000 signing bonus, and better retirement contributions. But for many machinists, it wasn’t enough. The deal didn’t bring back a defined benefit pension plan that was frozen over a decade ago—a sticking point for workers who feel they’ve sacrificed enough over the years.

Union leaders, Jon Holden and Brandon Bryant, didn’t push workers one way or the other on this offer, leaving the decision up to a vote. Their stance? After ten years of giving things up, workers feel it’s time to gain something back. “We’ve still got ground to make up,” Holden said, underscoring that it’s not just about the numbers but about restoring what’s been lost.

Boeing’s Big Headache
For Boeing, this strike isn’t just a labor dispute—it’s a financial headache that just keeps getting worse. The company posted a whopping $6 billion loss for the third quarter, with the strike hitting production and its defense programs hard. CEO Kelly Ortberg, who stepped in this August to clean up Boeing’s mess, is facing an uphill battle. From manufacturing delays to federal investigations, the company’s troubles run deep.

Ortberg’s recent comments to investors were a frank admission of Boeing’s struggles. “We’re at a crossroads,” he said, noting that trust in the company has eroded. His goal? To steer Boeing back on track and regain the confidence of customers who’ve been let down. It’s no easy task, especially with 17,000 employees—10% of Boeing’s workforce—facing layoffs in the middle of this turmoil.

Is There Hope for a Deal?
The road to an agreement looks bumpy. Contract talks broke down earlier this month, but there’s been a flicker of hope as the union and Boeing resumed discussions recently. Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Julie Su even flew out to Seattle to meet with both sides, attempting to broker some peace.

Had machinists accepted the deal, they would’ve headed back to work on October 31. But with the contract off the table, the strike continues, and Boeing’s ability to produce new 737s remains on ice. Meanwhile, Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner, which is manufactured in a non-union plant in South Carolina, isn’t affected—though it’s little consolation given the company’s broader struggles.

Reflection
This strike highlights the struggle for fairness, something deeply rooted in Christian teaching. James 5:4 reminds us, “The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you.” It’s a call to ensure that workers are treated fairly and with dignity. While negotiations can be tough, the pursuit of justice is a noble path. As Christians, we’re reminded to stand for what’s right, seeking equity for all, whether in our workplaces or in our daily lives, trusting that God values fairness and integrity in all things.