BOURNEMOUTH Airport could shut down next month as Unite ballots 80 workers over pay.

Plane fuellers, baggage handlers, security and check-in staff and flight dispatchers are among those involved in the dispute.

Members unanimously rejected a pay offer of 4.5 per cent for the lowest paid, which would boost their pay to just £12.22 per hour, and 3 per cent for higher-paid members.

Unite argues that the airport is meanwhile turning a profit, has hiked its charges by 5 per cent, and is pumping over £50 million into expansion to cope with rising passenger numbers.

Regional officer Janet Wall said: "We recognise that any flight cancellations and delays would be extremely disruptive and frustrating for travellers but our members feel they have had no choice but to start balloting for strike action.

“This is entirely the fault of the employer, who is financially prospering while our members struggle to afford the basics.

“We urge Bournemouth Airport to come back to the table and present Unite with a meaningful offer to avoid strikes.”

A spokesman for Bournemouth Airport said: “We are in ongoing negotiations in good faith with Unite and remain hopeful that we can work constructively with them to reach agreement. 

“We remain committed to keeping Bournemouth Airport as a vital economic asset for the region, our customers and for the people who work there — now and in the future.”