Pratt & Whitney and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 1725 have reached a tentative contract agreement, narrowly avoiding a strike that could have severely impacted the aerospace industry. The agreement, announced late Friday night, follows months of negotiations between the union, representing over 650 East Hartford, Connecticut production and maintenance workers, and the company. The previous contract expired on Sunday, and a potential work stoppage had raised concerns among airlines already dealing with supply chain issues and delivery delays.

The tentative deal is said to include significant wage increases over the four-year contract term, as well as cost-of-living adjustments to help employees cope with inflation. Workers also secured the reinstatement of a traditional defined-benefit pension plan, a major win for the union. The agreement strengthens job security provisions to protect against outsourcing and automation, while also improving healthcare benefits and increasing paid time off.

IAM District 91 spokesperson Tim Baker confirmed the details, stating that the contract offers compounded annual wage increases. Union members will vote on the proposed contract next Wednesday, with leadership recommending approval. A strike would have put additional pressure on engine production, potentially delaying deliveries to Airbus and other manufacturers reliant on Pratt & Whitney engines, including the A320neo family.

The tentative agreement is seen as a significant development for both the workers and the industry. It allows Pratt & Whitney to pursue its production goals with a more secure workforce, while setting a potential benchmark for other aerospace unions negotiating new contracts amid high demand and a tight labor market.