Boeing reported $23 billion in revenue for the third quarter and a $76 billion defense backlog, with positive cash flow for the first time since 2023. These results come as more than 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 continue their strike in St. Louis. The workers are seeking a new contract, citing their role in building advanced defense aircraft and weapons systems.
IAM District 837 members are responsible for the production and support of key military programs, including the F-15EX, F/A-18, T-7A, MQ-25, and the upcoming F-47 fighter jet. These programs are important for U.S. and allied defense capabilities. The ongoing strike has already contributed to delays in the delivery of the F-15EX, which the U.S. Air Force has publicly acknowledged.
During Boeing’s earnings call, company executives addressed the strike and outlined contingency plans to limit its impact. They also discussed efforts to develop a new corporate culture.
“Boeing’s so-called contingency plan is failing because they can’t replace the skill, precision, and experience of IAM Union members in St. Louis who have spent their careers building the world’s most advanced military products,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “If Boeing is serious about culture change and rebuilding its brand, it starts with respecting the people who make its success possible — not trying to sideline them. Investors must also take into account Boeing’s continued failure to manage labor relations responsibly. The company’s refusal to engage in fair bargaining is not only hurting workers and national defense programs — it’s a risk to Boeing’s long-term stability, reputation, and credibility.”
Boeing also announced plans for future investments in its St. Louis operations after securing the contract for the F-47 fighter jet. This move highlights the skills and dedication of IAM Union members.
“The workers whose craftsmanship and innovation made these investments possible deserve to share fully in the prosperity they’ve helped create,” Bryant added.
IAM Union members at Boeing facilities across the United States continue to produce commercial aircraft that contribute to Boeing’s recovery and future growth.
“Boeing’s executives can talk about transformation all they want, but the real transformation begins when they treat all employees as one Boeing,” Bryant continued. “The company hasn’t delivered a single new F-15 during this 13-week strike, and production delays are now rippling into the 777X program. It’s time for Boeing to end this strike, get our members back to work, and live up to the values they claim to be rebuilding.”
The union stated it is continuing negotiations with Boeing. On Monday, IAM presented a revised contract proposal with significant concessions on 401(k) improvements to move closer to an agreement. According to IAM, Boeing rejected this offer without a counterproposal. In response, IAM filed a second Unfair Labor Practice charge against Boeing for allegedly refusing to bargain in good faith.
The work stoppage has drawn attention from Congress. Sixteen bipartisan members of the House Armed Services Committee have called on Boeing to negotiate with IAM, warning that ongoing delays could impact national security by affecting defense deliveries.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired members across North America in sectors such as aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroads, transit, healthcare, automotive, and others in both the United States and Canada.
