Strike by Pratt & Whitney Workers Ceases After Approval of New Agreement
Pratt & Whitney Strike in Connecticut Ends as Union Members Ratify New Four-Year Agreement
After three weeks of strikes, approximately 3,000 union workers at Pratt & Whitney's East Hartford and Middletown plants in Connecticut are set to return to work. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), Locals 700 and 1746, ratified the new collective bargaining agreement on May 27, with 74.1% voting in favor.
This contract, valid from May 28, 2025, to May 4, 2029, provides job security and ongoing operations at the East Hartford and Middletown facilities until at least 2029. The agreement was reached following resumed negotiations on May 22 and voting on May 27.
The revised agreement incorporates a 6% wage increase in the first year, followed by annual general wage hikes of 3.5%, 3%, and 3%. Enhanced flexibility in workweek options, augmented contributions to pension plans, and a commitment to maintain operations until 2029 are additional aspects of the new contract.
The overwhelming rejection of Pratt & Whitney's initial proposal on May 4, which received an 80% vote against, served as a turning point in the negotiations. The union expressed concerns regarding insufficient attention to wages, job security, and retirement matters.
In the final contract, the total compensation package reflects robust, multi-year wage growth, 18.6% growth over the term, when including wages, bonuses, and retirement benefits. The agreement also encompasses improved rates for progression increases, additional pay for employees below the maximum rate with step increases of $0.20/hour every 16 weeks, and a $5,000 ratification bonus.
District 26 Directing Business Representative Jeff Santini expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the union's determination led to an agreement that prioritizes member concerns. With the new contract in place, union members and Pratt & Whitney can focus on jet aircraft engine production once more.
In the new four-year agreement, the enhanced contributions to the pension plans fall under the aerospace industry, while the business sector will see a total compensation package with robust, multi-year wage growth in the finance sector. With the ratification of this agreement, the union members can now focus on their work in the jet aircraft engine production, contributing to the ongoing operations of Pratt & Whitney within the aerospace industry.
