Around 5,000 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 774 (District 70) at Textron Aviation in Wichita, Kansas, overwhelmingly rejected the company’s final contract offer on September 21, 2024, and voted to go on strike.
The strike began at 00:01 local time on the night of September 23, 2024. The strike action comes as part of a larger initiative of aviation workers pushing back against low pay and bad working conditions. On September 13, 2024, around 33,000 Boeing machinists in the northwest of the United States went on strike after turning down a 25% pay increase over four years.
The results showed that most workers voted against the proposed agreement, with two-thirds supporting the strike against Textron Aviation.
The rejected deal, which Textron Aviation proposed to employees on September 18, 2024, would have given workers a 26% salary increase over four years, along with an annual bonus and other benefits.
Under the rejected deal, employees with five to 10 years experience were offered a $250 bonus each year, those with 10 to 15 years would receive $500, and employees with more than 15 years experience would earn a $1,000 bonus annually. Additionally, the company planned to give all bargaining unit members a guaranteed lump sum of $3,000 for each year of the agreement.
On September 21, 2024, IAM issued an official statement, confirming the strike. According to the union, workers are pursuing improved pay rates, healthcare, and job security after having voiced concerns regarding compensation and benefits, highlighting the pressing need for enhancements to ensure the well-being and livelihoods of all workers.
“Our members at Textron Aviation are dedicated workers who deserve a fair contract that recognizes their hard work,” said Lisa Whitley, District 70 President, and Directing Business Representative. “This isn’t just about our members. A good agreement benefits the entire Wichita community. We’re hopeful for a positive outcome for everyone.”
Textron Aviation issued a statement in response to the strike action claiming that the company is “disappointed that IAM District 70, Local Lodge 774 members did not vote to accept the proposed four-year contract and have chosen to strike”.
“No one benefits from a strike, and the company has made every effort to avoid one. However, as would be expected of any responsible business, the company has prepared for this scenario to ensure the business continues to operate for customers,” the statement continued.
According to the company, Textron Aviation is “as committed as ever to collaborating and agreeing upon a contract” with IAM. However, it is currently unclear when negotiations between the company and the union will start again.
Approximately 10,000 mechanists work for Textron Aviation in Kansas. Nearly half of these people have been with the company for more than 15 years. The union manufactures and services Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft at the facilities in east and west Wichita.