Textron Aviation Presents Final Labor Agreement To Machinists
WICHITA—Textron Aviation presented its best and final offer of a new four-year labor contract to the machinists union Sept. 18, one which includes a 26% wage increase over the life of the contract, cost-of-living adjustments, $3,000 lump sum payments in each of the four years and other benefits.
Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 70 Local Lodge 774 will vote Sept. 21 on whether to ratify the agreement. The current four-year contract expires at 11:59 p.m. CDT on Sunday, Sept. 22. The union represents about 5,000 hourly workers at Textron Aviation. Negotiations began Aug. 12.
“We have experienced many changes since our last contract four years ago,” Todd McKee, Textron Aviation senior vice president of integrated supply chain, said in a video message to employees. “We’re innovating and developing new products that excite our customers. We’re investing in improvements to become more efficient, and we’re continuing to build upon our one team culture. Today, we presented a contract offer that invests in you and recognizes your contributions.”
Highlights of the offer include an 11% wage increase upon ratification, a 4% wage increase in 2025, 5% wage increase in 2026 and a 6% increase in 2027. It offers a guaranteed $3,000 lump-sum payment in each of the four years of the contract, new annual longevity pay beginning with five years of service and increases in cost-of-living maximum pay. It increases the 50% company match in 401K contributions to 9%. In addition, depending on the plan, health insurance premiums will either remain the same or increase no more than 3%.
The contract offer includes an additional $1.50 per hour in “Technical Pay” for employees who hold jobs requiring a specific skill set, technical aptitude or specialized knowledge to perform them. And it includes $2.00 per hour in “License Pay” to those who hold an eligible license to perform their jobs, such as an Airframe & Powerplant license.
In addition, Textron Aviation commits to maintaining major manufacturing operations in Wichita.
Accepting or rejecting the contract offer takes a simple majority of the votes, while ratifying a strike requires two-thirds approval. Should members reject the contract but not have enough votes to strike, the contract is accepted by default.