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 over the next four years—4% in the first year, followed by 3%, 3%, and then 5% in the final year. 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 a benefit that previously applied only to some workers. In addition, there are new hourly premiums for airframe and powerplant work 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 began on June 23 between union representatives and Bombardier management. The bargaining committee focused on addressing members’ concerns while ensuring the contract remained 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 will take effect July 28, running through 2029.
The IAM Union represents about 600,000 active and retired workers across North America in sectors such as aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, among others.
