Full Breakdown
Boeing and SPEEA Reach Tentative Agreement for Aerospace Workers
1/16/2026, 5:45:08 AM
Overview of the Agreement
The Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) has reached a tentative agreement with Boeing for a new collective bargaining contract affecting approximately 1,600 aerospace professionals in Wichita, Kansas. This agreement comes after Boeing's acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, valued at $4.7 billion, which was finalized on December 8, 2025. The negotiation team unanimously recommends that union members approve the offer, citing significant improvements in benefits and compensation.
Key Details of the Contract
The proposed contract includes a 20% increase to wage pools over a 58-month period, with individual pay raises determined by annual performance reviews. All employees are guaranteed a minimum annual raise of 2%. The wage increases are structured to provide 5% on July 10, 2026, followed by 3.5% in March 2027, 4% in March 2028, 3.5% in March 2029, and 4% in March 2030. Additionally, promotional funds will increase from 0.50% to 0.75% annually, with unspent funds rolling over into the next year's wage pools.
Workers will also receive a ratification bonus of $6,000, which can be allocated to their 401(k) plans, and an increase in annual performance bonuses starting in 2027, raising the target from 6% to 7% and the maximum from 12% to 14%. A switch to a Boeing suite of medical insurance plans in 2027 is expected to save employees an average of $3,100 annually, with some potentially saving over $7,000. The agreement also includes an average of six additional days off per year, improved parental and military leave, and a 10% 401(k) match for employees contributing at least that amount.
Voting Process and Timeline
Union members have until 5 p.m. on January 30, 2026, to review and vote on the proposal, which will be conducted electronically, although in-person voting will be available at SPEEA's Wichita union hall. A simple majority is required for ratification, and if approved, the new terms will take effect on February 1, 2026. The current contract, which has been in place for six years, is set to expire on January 31, 2026.
Official Statements
James Hatfield, chair of the negotiation team, expressed optimism about the agreement, stating, "This proposal hits most of the areas we tried to address," highlighting improved pay, benefits, and time off. A Boeing spokesperson noted, "We're pleased the union's bargaining committee has fully endorsed our Best and Final Offer that would give our teammates higher wages, better benefits and more time off."
Criticism and Opposition
While the agreement has received support from union leaders, there may be dissent among some members regarding specific terms or the overall adequacy of the offer. However, no specific criticisms have been reported in the sources.
Conclusion
The tentative agreement between Boeing and SPEEA represents a significant development for aerospace professionals in Wichita, promising enhanced wages and benefits. As union members prepare to vote, the outcome will determine the future of labor relations at Boeing's Wichita operations.
