Business as usual at Birmingham

Birmingham Airport has commented on the potential problems that travellers at London airports could face over coming months and pointed out that it will be "business as usual" in the Midlands.

It was announced today that BAA workers belonging to the trade union Unite plan to take industrial action in January, potentially causing disruptions to the operations of London's three major airports.

Fears have emerged that the strikes could have catastrophic effects on both the travel industry and the economy.

However, Birmingham pointed out that London's hubs are not the only airports available to UK fliers.

"If you were to listen to some of the London-centric news reports, you'd be excused for thinking that air travel could be at a standstill across the country. This is plainly nonsense," said John Morris, head of corporate affairs at the airport.

"The standard of reporting this morning may have caused distress and confusion to those enlightened people who always choose to avoid the hassle of London. Birmingham International Airport will operate normally, as I am sure will our friends at Manchester."

Birmingham and Manchester are the two largest airports outside London.