Boeing CEO Urges Averting Labor Strike Ahead of Key Certification Milestones

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg is working to prevent a potential labor strike this fall by negotiating with the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA). A stoppage would halt key plane certification efforts and dent production, according to Ortberg.

The current contract expires on October 6, and SPEEA negotiators have announced an improved offer that includes a 10 percent wage increase. However, members roundly rejected an earlier proposal in September, creating the conditions for a potential strike.

Ortberg expects a union vote on the contract in the 'next couple of weeks' and is 'very hopeful' about averting another strike. He has previously experienced a seven-week strike by Boeing machinists in 2024.