We might see some progress to bring back the machinists to work soon as Spirit AeroSystems today announced that it will continue talks with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers on Monday, June 26, following constructive and positive meetings through the weekend.
Earlier, Spirit AeroSystems, a major supplier to Boeing, shut down its factory in Wichita, Kansas, on Thursday after workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers voted to strike.
"We have been working hard and making good progress," said Tom Gentile, President and CEO of Spirit AeroSystems. "We will continue discussions this week and remain committed to a timely resolution on a fair and competitive contract that addresses the priorities of our employees and other stakeholders."
Gentile also expressed appreciation for the ongoing assistance from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS).
Spirit AeroSystems and machinists through their assosciation, had been negotiating since May, and came to a tentative agreement last week.
The proposed deal was inclusive of a 34% pay increase, a health insurance, a 14.7% increase in retirement benefits with a new 401k match, voluntary Sunday overtime, and increased time off, according to the union. But rank and file members voted down the contract Wednesday leading to the current situation.
Local 839 said that 79% of union members who cast ballots voted to reject Spirit's offer, and 85% voted to authorize a strike.
"Most of our members have concluded the company's offer is unacceptable," union officers said.
A non functioning Spirit is a major concern for Boeing , that would have significant ramifications throughout the aerospace industry. The company is responsible for the supply of 70% of the aerostructures for the Boeing 737 planes.
A stop at the facility means Boeing's Renton factory assembly line will eventually come to a halt, impacting airlines who are expecting jets in a post pandemic market recovery.
