The Boeing 52-day strike may finally halt after the company reached a tentative four-year agreement with the International Association of Machinists. Details of the new contract have not yet been released, though Boeing contends that it addresses union concerns over job security, as well as factors such as pay and benefits. The firm also claims that the agreement incorporates the managerial flexibility necessary to operate successfully. Federally mediated negotiations lasted five days in establishing the accord, though it must still be approved by IAM's 27,000 membership. Union leadership appears to be behind the contract, citing significant improvements. A vote is expected in three to five days.
See "Boeing, union reach tentative deal to end strike", CNN Money, October 27, 2008