Air passengers could face severe disruptions over Christmas with airport firefighters planning to strike next Friday. The industrial action is set for the morning of 9 December at 27 airports across Australia, including major international hubs Sydney and Melbourne. The timing couldn’t be worse for Queenslanders, as the walk-off will occur just one day before the school holidays start. The United Fire Fighters Union says it’s taking the action as part of a dispute with government body Airservices Australia over safety concerns, with claims 100 firies were axed to cut costs. But Airservices Australia says the watchdog has conducted safety audits, and the dispute is really about pay. If the strike goes ahead, it could be up to airlines to decide whether they continue, reschedule or cancel flights. And there could be further disruptions after Qantas domestic flight attendants also voted in favour of strike action. No wonder more Aussies are choosing the train these days…