Boeing engineers face potential strike threatening 777X certification

Approximately 17,000 Boeing engineers and technical staff, represented by the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA), are facing a potential strike as their contracts expire on October 6, 2026. The group previously rejected an offer in August and authorized a strike by an 88% vote.

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg has stated that a strike would cause the 777X certification program to shut down, which would subsequently impact production. The 777X program has already faced significant delays and budget overruns. To avoid a walkout, Boeing presented an improved proposal on September 11, 2026, which reportedly includes a 10% general wage increase. A ratification vote on this new offer is expected in the coming weeks.