Nearly 500 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 639 in Wichita, Kansas, have ratified a new four-year labor contract with Bombardier. The agreement includes annual general wage increases of 4%, 3%, 3%, and 5% over the contract period. Pension contributions from the employer will rise from $59 to $66 per year of service. All employees will now receive a $3 per hour premium pay, which was previously limited to some workers. In addition, there will be a combined $2.50 per hour premium for airframe and powerplant work.
Negotiations began on June 23, with union representatives aiming to address members’ concerns while ensuring competitiveness with other aerospace companies in Wichita.
“Wichita is unique with its skilled labor force, which contributes significantly to general aviation,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “Our members at Bombardier are part of that workforce and earned an agreement commensurate with their contributions. We are incredibly proud of their dedication.”
Lisa Whitley, Directing Business Representative for IAM District 70, stated: “Our members at Local 639 always work to ensure that they receive what is due to them. This year’s negotiations are no different. This negotiating team took charge and presented a solid agreement to the membership for their consideration and ratification.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant commented: “We represent the best in class in aerospace in Wichita. This contract represents our membership’s hard work and dedication to their craft. Congrats to Local 639 members on a job well done.”
The new contract goes into effect on July 28 and will expire in 2029.
The IAM Union represents about 600,000 active and retired members across various industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and others throughout the United States and Canada.
