East Hartford, Conn. (AP) — Jet engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney announced on Friday that they have come to a temporary agreement with a union representing about 3,000 mechanics in Connecticut. First strike since May 4th The agreement includes enhancements in job security, wage increases, retirement benefits, and healthcare coverage.
Members of the International Association of Mechanics and Aerospace Workers are slated to vote on the revised contract offer on May 27th. The company noted that the interim agreement was established after discussions resumed on Thursday, focusing on “a significant issue of interest among members.” Specific details were not disclosed.
In a Facebook update, the union announced it was presenting an “improved” interim agreement for its members to consider during the vote.
“It's up to our membership to decide if Pratt and Whitney’s proposals align with their needs,” the post stated.
Pickets have begun at the production facilities in East Hartford and Middletown following a vote in which approximately 77% of nearly 2,100 members approved the first strike since 2001.
“Pratt and Whitney are responding to our membership’s action. This offer does not adequately address members’ concerns, and our members have made their choice. We will persist in our fight for a just contract.”
The company, a division of RTX Corp. based in Arlington, Virginia, urged a competitive approach toward previous wage and retirement proposals, asserting that its workforce is the best compensated in the region and industry.
The strike is prompted by RTX facing a possible $850 million impact on this year’s profits due to tariffs established by President Donald Trump if they remain unchanged throughout the year. During a first-quarter revenue call on April 22, the company indicated that Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace subsidiaries would be impacted by tariffs potentially exceeding $400 million.
RTX anticipates adjusted sales ranging between $83 billion and $84 billion in 2025. The company reported revenues of $1.5 billion in the first quarter, with Pratt & Whitney’s adjusted operating profit for that quarter recorded at $590 million.
The company’s previous contract proposal included an immediate 4% wage increase, followed by increases of 3.5% in 2026 and 3% in 2027. Additionally, the proposal features a $5,000 contract ratification bonus, enhanced pensions, and improved 401K plan benefits.
Pratt & Whitney produces engines for both commercial and military aircraft, including the Airbus Commercial Jet GTF line and the military F-35 Lightning II Fighter aircraft’s F135 engines.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat who joined the picket line, described the interim agreement as “a promising step for Pratt’s skilled mechanics, and I hope for a fair resolution soon.”
Source: apnews.com