Jetstar set for mass flight cancellations as workers launch 24-hour strike

Passenger in terminal watching Jetstar Plane

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) has announced that Jetstar baggage handlers and ground crew are set to walk off the job for 24 hours next week amid a stand-off with the budget airline over pay and conditions, which is likely to cause widespread cancellations.

TWU members will hold a protected 24-hour strike at Sydney, Melbourne, Avalon, Brisbane, Cairns and Adelaide airports on Wednesday, February 19.

Jetstar chief executive Gareth Evans said in a statement on Friday the airline would be doing "everything possible" to disrupt customers as little as possible.

Passengers booked to travel on February 19 can cancel their flight and receive a full refund, or move their booking to an earlier date at no extra cost.