Boeing resumes talks with striking machinists in St. Louis after nearly four weeks

In a statement ahead of renewed talks scheduled for August 25, Boeing said: “We look forward to further conversations with the union on Aug. 25 and finding a path forward to end the strike and bring our team back to work.”

IAM District 837 represents more than 3,200 workers who assemble advanced aircraft such as the F-15 and F/A-18 jets as well as missile and defense technologies. Union representatives argue that Boeing’s proposals do not adequately address high inflation or reflect rising demand for skilled aerospace labor.

During negotiations, IAM presented alternative solutions intended to meet worker demands. While Boeing maintains that its offer would benefit employees’ pay over time, certain incentives—such as a $5,000 ratification bonus—were withdrawn after deadlines passed without an agreement.

The first contract offer from Boeing included potential alternative workweek schedules (AWS), a general wage increase of 20%, more vacation and sick leave, a $5,000 lump sum ratification bonus (which could be deferred into a 401(k)), and incremental pension multiplier increases over two years. The second offer withdrew AWS proposals but accelerated pension improvements by providing the full $10 increase in Year 1; however, the ratification bonus was contingent on approval by August 3.

IAM International President Brian Bryant has called on Missouri’s Congressional delegation for support during the strike period and urged lawmakers to join picketing workers in solidarity.

Despite ongoing strikes at some sites, operations continue at Boeing’s St. Louis-area facilities with non-striking staff working on programs such as Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs), MQ-25 ground testing, T-7 flight tests, flight ramp operations for deliveries in progress or near completion, and production of flight controls for the Boeing 777X.

Boeing's Defense division is currently facing other program challenges involving products like the T-7 trainer jet and MQ-25 drone. CEO Kelly Ortberg has encouraged employees to focus on rebuilding company culture during this period of industrial action.

There is no clear timeline for when an agreement might be reached between Boeing and IAM District 837 members; striking workers remain barred from company facilities until further notice.