Boeing announced yesterday (8/20/19) to the media its plan to temporarily increase staffing levels at its facility in Moses Lake to assist and support 737 MAX storage and pre-delivery. The Company also noted their plan calls for all airplanes stored outside Puget Sound to return to Seattle and Everett for delivery.

The Union met with the Company last Friday to discuss The Company’s plan for ongoing preservation and upcoming pre-delivery work on the 737MAX in Moses Lake. They will be looking at staffing from three specific groups. The Company intends to loan members volunteering from Puget Sound for this domestic travel assignment, temporarily rehire retirees, and utilize short-term direct hires at Moses Lake. There are specific details (housing/meal allowance, completion bonus, etc.) the Company will present to those interested or offered a position at Moses Lake.

It is important to note that Moses Lake will be considered a remote location similar to Edwards Air Force Base or PDX. All of these workers will be IAM union members in our bargaining unit and covered by our contract with Boeing.

If someone is interested in volunteering for this assignment; all we can do is advise them to make their manager aware of their interest in volunteering for Moses Lake, since it is a Company selection process.

This build up is in preparation for when the 737MAX grounding ends, is certified to fly and be delivered. There isn’t a specific date the Company is targeting, as the grounding has not been lifted yet.

August 2019 Aero Mechanic Newspaper Available Online.

Aug_2019_Aero.pdf