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 wage increases over the life of the contract—4% in the first year, followed by 3%, 3%, and then 5% in subsequent years.
The contract also provides an increase in employer pension contributions, raising them from $59 to $66 per year of service. In addition, all employees will now receive a $3 per hour premium pay for roles that previously only applied to some workers. Employees working on airframes and powerplants will see an additional combined premium of $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 for this contract began on June 23. The union’s negotiating committee aimed to address concerns raised by members while ensuring the deal remained competitive within Wichita’s aerospace industry.
“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.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant stated, “We represent the best in class in aerospace in Wichita. 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 agreement becomes effective July 28, 2025, and will remain valid until its expiration in 2029.
IAM represents about 600,000 active and retired workers across North America in industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, railroads, transit, healthcare, automotive sectors, among others.
