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 next four years. It also features an increase in employer pension contributions from $59 to $66 per year of service, pay equity measures that extend a $3 per hour premium to all employees, and an additional $2.50 per hour in combined airframe and powerplant premiums.
Negotiations began on June 23, with the committee aiming to address members’ concerns while ensuring the deal remained competitive within Wichita’s aerospace sector.
“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.”
IAM District 70 Directing Business Representative Lisa Whitley 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 contract will take effect on July 28 and will remain in place until 2029.
The IAM Union represents about 600,000 active and retired workers across North America in industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, among others.
