ONLY the weather remains a threat to air travel this Christmas, after a planned strike by baggage handlers was called off.
Industrial action by Swissport staff members represented by the Unite union was set to affect 18 air hubs beginning on December 23 and lasting for two days.
The airports set to be affected included Belfast International and Belfast City, but talks over a disputed pay deal led to the strike being cancelled on Tuesday.
However, British Airways, which operates flights from Belfast City Airport, will be hit by a cabin crew strike on Christmas Day and St Stephen's Day.
The airline has insisted that it will run a full flight schedule despite the industrial action over pay.
The remaining fear for travellers, however, is the weather, and Met Office warnings for festive disruptions have left many wary that flights could be affected in the coming days.
A Met Office spokesman said that travel worries should be focussed on roads and the sea.
Deputy Chief Meteorologist Chris Tubbs said: “Storm Barbara is forecast to form in the west Atlantic on Wednesday and will pass close to the northwest of the UK during Friday, bringing very strong winds and heavy rain, especially across the north and west of Scotland. This brings the potential for some structural damage, disruption to power supplies and travel, with restrictions on bridges and disruption to ferries likely.
“The disturbed conditions look like continuing through Christmas weekend with another vigorous low pressure system waiting in the wings."
