The union for 33,000 striking Boeing Co. factory workers said it’s “actively engaged in indirect discussions” with the embattled planemaker, a possible sign of progress toward ending the five-week walkout.

By David Shepardson (Reuters) -A union representing striking machinists at Boeing said on Friday it is "actively engaged in indirect discussions" with the planemaker that are being facilitated by Acting U.

About 33,000 of Boeing's unionized West Coast workers have been on strike since September 13, demanding higher wages, restoration of defined benefit pension

The US’s top labor official met with leaders of Boeing Co. and striking union workers as the monthlong stoppage takes an increasing toll on the planemaker.

Boeing and the union representing some 33,000 workers who've been on strike for over a month have negotiated a tentative new agreement.