Boeing makes 'best and final' offer to machinists union

Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Boeing offered its striking machinists union what it is calling a "best and final" offer with the union firing back charging it is a ploy to divide the workers.

Boeing said the 33,000-member union had until Friday to accept the deal, which includes a 30% pay increase over the life of the contract, returning an annual bonus program, and a $6,000 signing bonus.

"After an unsuccessful federal mediation last week, we presented a best and final offer that made significant improvements and addresses feedback from the union and our employees," Boeing said on Monday.

"We first presented the offer to the union and then transparently shared the details with our employees."

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 751 and W24 pointed out the offer was made as Boeing rejected face-to-face or mediated negotiations with them and it comes with no input from the negotiating team.

"Let us be absolutely clear, this is a non-negotiated offer from Boeing," the union said shortly after the company released its plan. "Your negotiating committee did not have any discussion or input on this offer."

The union has been on strike since Sept. 13, leading Boeing to furlough thousands of other employees to reduce costs while plants sit idle. Only Boeing's non-union shop in South Carolina remains open. Boeing is also increasing its 401(k) match while renewing its commitment to keep production of Boeing's next new aircraft in union-heavy Washington state.

The 30% salary increase, however, remains well off of the 40% increase the union had been seeking for its meeting.