New York area airport workers delay strike, but threat looms

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Hundreds of workers at all three major New York area airports are headed to work Wednesday after a planned strike was delayed, but the threat still looms as talks continue.

Approximately 700 workers -- including baggage handlers, cleaners and customer service agents at Newark Liberty, JFK and LaGuardia airport -- were set to go on strike in a labor dispute with their employer, PrimeFlight, a subcontractor for several airlines.

But employees said American Airlines contacted them overnight to come up with an agreement, and talks were to continue. A spokesperson for 32BJ Service Employees International Union, which represents the workers, said rallies were still planned in support of their cause.

Some walked off the job at Newark Airport at 9 p.m. Tuesday, but all were expected to report for work Wednesday.

The workers are alleging unfair labor practices.