Stansted Airport could be brought to a halt after firefighters, security guards and support staff voted to strike in a dispute over pay.
Around 400 took part in the ballot at the Essex airport but bosses hope further discussions will help to understand and resolve the issue.
Airport operator BAA has contingency plans in place to maintain customer service levels but Stansted spokesman Robbie Barrigan said depending on what action is taken it could affect the airport's operation.
"We can't run an airport without firefighters and security," he added.
Nationally 2,500 BAA workers have voted by two to one in favour of walkouts in protest at a pay offer of 1.7 per cent plus £150.
The Transport and General Workers Union said the vote showed the sheer frustration of workers at the company's offer.
Union officials are meeting on Monday to plan the industrial action.
The airport said the pay offer is worth 6.3 per cent over two years.
Published Friday November 8, 2002
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