Over the years, Boeing and its unions have disagreed over key issues such as compensation and job security. When the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers calls a strike, it knows it has a strong position. The company can’t easily find trained workers to replace the highly-skilled union machinists, so a strike will stop Boeing’s assembly lines and delay jet deliveries. For its part, Boeing wants to protect its profitability and minimize business disruptions to prevent customers from defecting to Airbus, its European rival. Boeing’s chief negotiator says its executives will not “sacrifice our ability to continuously improve productivity and our long-term competitiveness.” Both sides are committed to resolving these issues for the benefit of the company and its workforce.

1. If a union goes out on strike against Boeing for an extended period, should the U.S. government get workers back on the job by seeking an injunction under the Taft- Hartley Act? Why or why not?
2. Do you think that agreeing to unionized employees’ demands would constrain Boeing’s productivity and competitiveness? Explain your answer.