Boeing's Acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems: A Windfall for IAM Members?

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is closely monitoring Boeing's upcoming acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, with a keen focus on ensuring that its members at Spirit AeroSystems benefit from the transaction. IAM International President Brian Bryant recently led a delegation of top IAM officials to meet with Local 839 and District 70 leadership to discuss the acquisition, emphasizing the union's commitment to protecting its members' interests throughout the process.

IAM Local 839 in Wichita, Kan., represents approximately 6,000 members at Spirit, a key supplier for Boeing aerostructures, including 737 fuselages. Boeing, the former parent company of Spirit, announced in July 2024 that it had entered into an agreement to reacquire Spirit. The transaction is expected to close in mid-2025.

"The IAM Union is completely united in ensuring that our Local 839 membership at Spirit AeroSystems benefits from this upcoming acquisition," said IAM International President Brian Bryant. "We had great discussions with leaders at Local 839 and District 70 leaders about how to protect our membership throughout this process and make sure that Boeing fulfills its obligations to our members and the community."

In June 2023, IAM members at Spirit ratified a four-year contract that included improvements in wages, prescription drug coverage, and overtime rules. This contract will remain in effect until its expiration in 2027, providing job security and compensation for Spirit's employees represented by the IAM Local 839 during the transition period.

However, the long-term impact on job security and compensation for Spirit's employees after the acquisition is not explicitly stated in the provided materials. The IAM has expressed its commitment to ensuring that its members' interests are protected throughout the acquisition process. In July 2024, the IAM released a statement emphasizing that it would work with management to implement policies that improve manufacturing processes and standards while putting its members' interests at the forefront. The IAM is also engaged in contract negotiations with Boeing for its Puget Sound members, which may influence the terms and conditions for Spirit's employees after the acquisition.

In addition to Boeing and Spirit, the IAM is proud to represent workers at Lockheed Martin, Pratt and Whitney, GE Aerospace, and other major aerospace companies. "Our Local 839 membership at Spirit AeroSystems are leaders not only in the Wichita community, but in the entire aerospace industry," said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. "We will use all IAM resources necessary to make sure we continue to grow Wichita's reputation as the ‘air capital of the world.’"

"As the largest and most powerful aerospace union in North America, the IAM is laser-focused on continuing to make gains for all aerospace workers," said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. "We will stop at nothing to ensure that the generational, skilled workers at Spirit are protected throughout this acquisition."



As the acquisition process unfolds, the IAM will continue to engage with its members and work at all levels of the union to maintain and grow the quality of life for its dedicated membership at Spirit. The union's commitment to protecting its members' interests throughout the acquisition process is a testament to its dedication to the aerospace industry and its workers.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems by Boeing presents an opportunity for the IAM to ensure that its members at Spirit benefit from the transaction. The union's commitment to protecting its members' interests throughout the process is a crucial factor in shaping the long-term impact of the acquisition on Spirit's employees. As the acquisition process continues, the IAM will work diligently to protect its members' rights and ensure that they are treated fairly and respectfully.