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 term of the contract. It also features an increase in employer pension contributions 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. In addition, there is a $1.25 hourly airframe premium and a $1.25 hourly powerplant premium, totaling $2.50 per hour.
“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.”
Negotiations for the new contract began on June 23, with union representatives seeking to address member concerns while keeping terms competitive within Wichita’s aerospace sector.
“Our members at Local 639 always work to ensure that they receive what is due to them,” said IAM District 70 Directing Business Representative Lisa Whitley. “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.”
“We represent the best in class in aerospace in Wichita,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “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 takes effect on July 28 and will expire in 2029.
IAM represents about 600,000 active and retired members across industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, among others throughout the United States and Canada.
