The International Associations of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), the union representing striking workers at Textron Aviation in Wichita, Kansas, has said mediators have been contacted and talks could “potentially resume next week”, as strike action continues.
Around 5,000 members of the (IAM) Local 774 (District 70) in Wichita overwhelmingly rejected the company’s latest contract offer on September 21, 2024, and voted to go on strike. The offer included a 26% salary increase over four years, along with an annual bonus and other benefits.
The union is seeking better working conditions in four main areas, IAM 774 members announced in an updated statement, published on September 24, 2024.
IAM Local 774 members are asking for pay increases to “keep pace with inflation”. Additionally, they want “affordable and comprehensive healthcare coverage for themselves and their families”. The union is also advocating for “stronger protections against layoffs and outsourcing” and demanding an “improved and reliable retirement plan”.
“IAM Local 774 remains committed to securing a fair deal for our members and is prepared to stay on strike until an agreement is reached,” said IAM Aerospace Coordinator, Shannon Stucker. “Our negotiating team is willing and able to sit down with Textron Aviation leadership to work on an agreement that is best for both parties.”
Textron Aviation issued a statement in response to the strike action claiming that it is “as committed as ever to collaborating and agreeing upon a contract” with IAM.