Air Malta said yesterday it is making contingency plans in the eventuality of a strike by British Airports Authority employees at seven major UK airports in a row over pensions.

BAA employees are threatening strike action at London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Southampton, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow on January 7, 14, 17 and 18. If the strike action is called, Air Malta scheduled flights from Heathrow, Gatwick and Glasgow on those days will be affected.

Since the strike action is limited to the above airports only, Air Malta's Manchester and Birmingham flights will not be affected.

Air Malta said that, whereas other airlines have cancelled their flights on the days in question, it is making contingency plans to minimise the inconveniences to passengers.

These plans include diverting the airline's Heathrow and Gatwick flights to Luton and its Glasgow flights to Prestwick on the days of the strike. Should strike action materialise, passengers travelling from London are advised to check in at Luton airport while passengers travelling from Glasgow should check in at Prestwick. Air Malta is also giving its clients who booked on the affected flights the possibility to change their flight dates at no additional charge, provided travel is completed by January 31.

Although talks between the BAA and unions have been unsuccessful, an agreement could still be reached and the strike action withdrawn. If strike action is withdrawn, all flights will operate as per normal schedule.

Air Malta advised clients to remain updated on the matter and to check its website - www.airmalta.com - for the latest updates. On the day of their flights passengers travelling from Malta are also advised to check with flight enquiries at Malta International Airport on 5004 3333 while passengers travelling to Malta from the UK should call on 00356 21662211 for further information and to confirm flight arrival/departure times.

Air Malta apologised for any inconveniences caused to its clients as a result of circumstances beyond its control.

Here is a list of affected flights should strike action go ahead: