Good picturesThe union representing thousands of striking Boeing workers has hit out at the planemaker’s proposed 30% increase over four years in its “best and final” wage offer.
The new offer again includes performance bonus and enhanced retirement benefits.
However, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) said it had not negotiated the offer with the union and “it was thrown at us without any discussion” – a denial Boeing said.
Earlier this month, more than 30,000 Boeing workers went on strike, rejecting a 25% pay raise offer.
“After listening to our employees and their concerns, Boeing today made our best and final offer,” the plane maker said in a letter.
The scheme doubles the value of a one-off bonus for signing a new pay contract to $6,000 (£4,497).
Boeing said the offer was contingent on confirmation by union members by midnight Pacific time on Friday, September 27 (Saturday, September 28 at 7 GMT).
But Boeing sent the new offer directly to union members and the media without telling union representatives, the IAM said.
“This tactic is a blatant show of disrespect for you — our members — and for the bargaining process.” IAM said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The union also said it would not hold a membership vote before Boeing’s deadline.
In response, Boeing told the BBC: “We have negotiated in good faith with the IAM since formal negotiations began in March.”
“We first made the offer to the union and then openly shared the details with our employees,” it added.
Boeing workers voted to strike on September 13 after rejecting a new contract agreement that included a 25% pay increase over four years.
The union initially aimed for several improvements in workers’ packages, including a 40% wage increase.
Nearly 95% of union members — who manufacture planes including the 737 Max and 777 — voted to reject Boeing’s initial offer.
Of those who voted, 96% supported strike action until a new agreement was reached.
The strike threatens to cost Boeing billions of dollars, deepening the crisis at a company already facing significant challenges.
Its effects are already being felt across the industry and the broader U.S. economy, as Boeing has halted shipments of most parts and taken other steps to save money.
The company has already laid off tens of thousands of employees.
It also said that US-based executives, managers and employees will be asked to take a one-week furlough every four weeks for the duration of the walkout.
Government officials are now helping to mediate talks between the two sides.
