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WICHITA, Kan. Sept. 30, 2024 – Approximately 5,000 workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at Textron Aviation in Wichita, Kan., are standing strong on the picket lines for a fair contract as a strike of the general aviation company enters a second week. The IAM Union released the following statement:
“IAM Local 774 members are standing strong on the picket line for the entire Wichita community and working families everywhere. By overwhelmingly rejecting the company’s offer and making the difficult decision to strike, IAM members have made it clear that Textron executives must provide more for the skilled workforce who have made Wichita the ‘Air Capital of the World’ for generations. IAM Local 774 members have the support of the entire IAM – and all of the labor movement – as they take a strong stand for the contract they’ve earned.
“Through a member survey after the contract’s rejection, Textron workers are united in demanding more compensation for the work they do. In a visit to strike lines this past weekend, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin and IAM Southern Territory Chief of Staff Reggie Dixon witnessed first-hand the resolve of IAM Local 774 members who are united to fight for their families and communities.
“In addition, as the company announces that it will end the health insurance of striking workers on Sept. 30, IAM Local 774 has announced an increased local strike benefit for qualifying members.
“The IAM Local 774 Negotiating Committee remains ready, willing and able to reengage with the company at any point to negotiate a fair contract. We look forward to reaching an agreement that benefits our members, the Wichita community and the company.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.
