Gateway Travel Management

Mar 8, 2002 - Australia Air Traffic Controller Strike

Air Traffic Controllers' Strike scheduled to shut down airports in Victoria, Australia for four hours March 13; major flight disruptions and cancellations are imminent.

Air traffic controllers, technicians and maintenance staff at airports throughout Victoria, Australia will strike 11:00am - 3:00pm on March 13 over a salary dispute. The four-hour strike would force Melbourne International Airport and several smaller, regional airports to shut down. Expect flight delays and cancellations to occur throughout the Australian airport system, as airlines are unable to keep their flight schedules on time.

Travelers with flights to and from Australia on March 13 should reconfirm flight schedules. Arrive at the airport earlier than the time recommended by the airline (usually two-three hours before departure) to allow extra time for passenger flight rescheduling, check-in and security screening.