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 will take effect on July 28 and is set to expire in 2029.
The contract includes annual general wage increases of 4%, 3%, 3%, and 5% over the four years. 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, expanding what was previously available only to some workers. Additionally, there is a $1.25 hourly airframe premium and a $1.25 hourly powerplant premium, totaling an extra $2.50 per hour.
Craig Martin, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President, said, “Wichita is unique with its skilled labor force, which contributes significantly to general aviation. Our members at Bombardier are part of that workforce and earned an agreement commensurate with their contributions. We are incredibly proud of their dedication.”
Negotiations began on June 23 with the goal of addressing member concerns while keeping terms competitive within Wichita’s aerospace sector.
Lisa Whitley, IAM District 70 Directing Business Representative, 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 added, “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 IAM Union represents about 600,000 active and retired members across North America in industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive and more (https://www.goiam.org/).
