Boeing boss makes ultimatum to workers ahead of strike vote

Boeing's The new CEO is Kelly Ortberg It urged workers not to go on strike as it would “jeopardise the recovery” of the company.

It comes hours before a key union vote that could trigger industrial action at the beleaguered company.

The aviation giant's executives and union representatives reached an agreement earlier this week that includes 25% salary increase in four years But it has not yet been approved by the union members.

If workers vote against the deal, a second ballot on whether to go on strike will be held by Friday.

“I ask you not to forsake the opportunity to secure our future together because of past disappointments,” Mr Ortberg said in his message to staff.

“Working together, I know we can get back on track, but a strike would jeopardize our shared recovery”.

On top of the proposed 25% pay increase, the preliminary agreement will provide workers with improved health care and retirement benefits, as well as 12 weeks of paid parental leave.

It also includes Boeing's commitment to build its next commercial aircraft in the Seattle area if the project begins during the life of the contract.

The union had initially targeted several improvements in staff packages, including a 40% pay rise.

However, it appears that the reaction of the 30,000 Boeing workers represented by the union was not entirely positive.

Union leader and top negotiator, John Holden, said it was unclear whether there was enough support among union members for the deal to be approved.

He told the news agency Reuters, they are angry.

The current agreement between Boeing and the unions was reached in 2008 after an eight-week strike.

In 2014, both sides agreed to extend the deal, which is set to expire at midnight on Thursday.

The initial contract rejection between Boeing and its largest union would be a more significant blow to the firm.

A strike could potentially halt aircraft production at a time when the company is facing deep financial losses and Struggling to repair its reputation After the most recent incident five years ago and two fatal accidents.

It would also be a major blow to Mr. Ortberg, an aerospace industry veteran and engineer who took over as Boeing's chief executive last month in a bid to turn the business around.