HOLIDAYMAKERS could face misery if a threatened strike at one of the region's airports goes ahead.

Ground staff at Newcastle Airport yesterday voted for industrial action over pay by an overwhelming 94.6 per cent.

The Transport and General Workers' Union (TGWU), which organised the ballot, will meet with bosses of aviation services firm Groundstar today. Representatives of the conciliation agency, Acas, will also be present.

Staff voted to reject a pay increase of 2.2 per cent for this year, rising to 2.5 per cent the following year. They want a pay increase of more than five per cent. The union has suggested Saturday, September 1, as a possible day of action.

Workers threatening action include check-in staff and baggage handlers.

Joe Keith, TGWU regional industrial organiser, said: "We want to avoid taking action if it is at all possible, and we will working towards that. But the ballot verdict was overwhelming and indicates the strength of feeling on this. Staff at another company at the airport are better paid. These are hard-working people who want adequate pay."

The union has 148 members at the airport. Of those, 100 voted for action, six against and the remainder abstained.

A Groundstar spokesman said: "We are absolutely confident this matter will be resolved."