Boeing workers strike as 25% pay rise rejected

USA: Boeing workers have gone on strike after they overwhelmingly rejected a tentative deal between union representatives and the plane maker that included a 25% pay rise.

More than 30,000 workers in Seattle and Portland downed their tools from midnight Pacific Time (07:00 GMT) on Friday.

The walkout is another setback for the firm, which is facing deepening financial losses.

It is also struggling to repair its reputation after a series of safety issues, including two fatal crashes.

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The strike will be a major blow for Boeing’s new chief executive Kelly Ortberg, who was appointed last month with a mission to turn the business around.

Almost 95% of the union members – who produce planes including the 737 Max and 777 – voted in the ballot rejected the pay deal.

Of those who voted, 96% back strike action until a new agreement is reached.