WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The Machinists union negotiating committee is asking union members to vote in favor of Textron Aviation’s “best and final” contract offer, but some union members say they would rather strike.
The union members will vote on the contract and on whether to strike on Saturday.
The current contract expires at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, and the company and the International Association of Machinists Local Lodge 774 have been negotiating a new contract for over a month.
Late Wednesday, the company presented its final contract offer. Some of the key points are:
- A 26% general wage increase over the life of the contract:
- 11% effective immediately upon ratification of the contract,
- 4% on Sept. 21, 2025,
- 5% on Sept. 20, 2026, and
- 6% on Sept. 19, 2027.
- The wage increase is in addition to a 4% general wage increase added in 2022.
- The cost of living adjustment maximum has been increased from $700 to $1,500 a year.
- There is a guaranteed $3,000 lump sum payment every year of the contract.
- The 401K match increases to 9%.
- New longevity pay to be paid yearly:
- $250 for 5 to 10 years of service,
- $500 for 10 to 15 years, and
- $1,000 for more than 15 years.
- A zero increase to the no-deductible plan health insurance premium. Increases to the low- and high-deductible premiums will be capped at a 3% increase annually.