Boeing is at a crucial moment as around 17,000 engineers, scientists, and technicians represented by the union SPEEA prepare to vote on a revised four-year contract from September 24 to October 1. If the contract is rejected, a strike could start after the current agreements expire on October 6, immediately halting certification work for the 777-9, the first model of the 777X family of aircraft. The American manufacturer is trying to avoid a conflict that would directly affect the teams responsible for designing, analyzing, and supporting the development of aircraft with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This is a sensitive issue, especially since the 777X, which has already faced significant delays, is still scheduled for its first deliveries in 2027. The improved contract offer comes after an initial rejection in August by the two SPEEA negotiation units, even though the negotiation teams had initially expressed a favorable opinion. At the same time, employees had also voted to authorize a strike, increasing pressure on Boeing in Seattle and the Puget Sound region, which has historically been the heart of its aerospace engineering activities. The new offer includes a guaranteed 10% salary increase upon ratification, followed by another guaranteed 4% increase in March 2027. For the years 2028 to 2030, Boeing proposes annual salary increases of 6%, with at least 4% guaranteed for each employee. The company estimates that 34% of salary funds will be mobilized over four years, of which 26% would be guaranteed. The provisions related to health coverage and retirement from the first offer would be maintained, while the text also clarifies the framework for remote work. Boeing states that the SPEEA negotiation teams recommend a favorable vote this time. However, the outcome remains uncertain: distrust toward management, fueled by previous social agreements and the company's transformations, remains a central topic in the discussions. The stakes go beyond the social field. During a conference organized by Morgan Stanley, Boeing's CEO, Kelly Ortberg, acknowledged the consequences of a work stoppage: "The certification program for the 777X essentially stops until the engineers return," he said, adding that the effects would be felt "all the way to production." This clarification is important: unlike a strike limited to assembly lines, a conflict involving engineers and technical staff would affect tests, compliance analysis, regulatory documentation, and necessary exchanges with the U.S. civil aviation authority. It could also slow down the 737 MAX 10 and 777X programs, both of which are still lacking certification. Boeing continues flight tests of the 777X, but some activities could still extend into 2027. The manufacturer is also awaiting approvals related to engine tests and ETOPS work, essential for the long-range operation of the twin-engine aircraft. Kelly Ortberg, however, maintains the goal of first deliveries in 2027. The result of the SPEEA vote is expected on October 1. A rejection would open, just days before the October 6 deadline, a new area of turbulence for the 777X program.