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Boeing has reached a tentative collective bargaining agreement with a union representing about 1,600 white-collar workers at Spirit AeroSystems, marking a key labor milestone following the aerospace giant’s recent acquisition of the fuselage supplier. The Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA), which represents non-engineering employees in Wichita, Kansas, announced that its negotiation team has unanimously recommended approval of Boeing’s proposed contract.
The agreement comes after Boeing completed its $4.7 billion acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems on December 8. Due to labor law restrictions, formal contract negotiations could only begin after the deal officially closed. Talks were temporarily paused until January 5 after union representatives criticized Boeing for initially being unprepared for negotiations, but discussions later resumed and led to the current proposal.
According to SPEEA, Boeing’s offer includes a 20% increase to wage pools over approximately five years, a 50% annual boost in promotional funds, and a $6,000 ratification bonus for eligible employees. The proposal also features enhanced benefits, including improved medical and dental coverage, additional vacation time, and a 10% employer match to employee 401(k) retirement contributions starting in 2027. Union negotiation chair James Hatfield said the deal delivers meaningful improvements in compensation and benefits, calling the salary increase structure “decent” and emphasizing the gains in healthcare and time off.
Boeing welcomed the union’s endorsement, with a company spokesperson stating that the agreement would provide higher wages, better benefits, and more personal time for employees. The company encouraged union members to vote in favor of the proposal.
Union members have until 5 p.m. on January 30 to review and vote on the tentative agreement. While the current six-year contract does not expire until January 31, 2026, the proposed deal aims to provide long-term stability as Boeing integrates Spirit AeroSystems into its operations. The outcome of the vote will be closely watched as Boeing continues to navigate labor relations amid broader challenges in the aerospace industry.
