AEROSPACE

Machinists Approve McDonnell Douglas Offer: The 6,700 workers, who have been on strike since June 5, overwhelmingly approved a new contract, ending their 99-day strike against the St. Louis-based aerospace company. The workers, who will start returning to work Monday, won changes in three key areas: job security, wages and pension benefits, the union said. The contract, which was reached Friday after an intense negotiating session in Washington with the help of federal mediators, was ratified 3,774 to 1,785. It gives the union at least 60 days’ notice before the company signs any subcontracting agreement that would displace 50 or more workers. The union then would have a chance to bid on the work. Other changes include wage increases and bonuses totaling 13.5% over the next four years.