Boeing factory workers in Washington state vote in favor of strike mandate, union says

Boeing factory workers in Washington state have voted in favor of a strike mandate. The union is seeking a 40% raise in their first negotiation with the company in 16 years. The workers, who build Boeing’s 737 MAX and other jets, gathered to vote earlier in the day. However, they cannot strike until their contract expires on September 12. Boeing is facing challenges as it loses ground to rival Airbus and deals with the aftermath of a door plug incident on an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX jet. The company has expressed confidence in reaching a deal that balances employee needs with business realities. The vote in favor of the strike mandate strengthens the negotiating committee and sends a clear message to the company.