operations at the Grantley Adams International Airport ceased after 9 p.m. yesterday, when the last American Airlines flight touched down on the tarmac.

And while the airport is expected to reopen this morning, passengers travelling out of Barbados should brace themselves for delays, since a strike by air traffic controllers is expected to escalate.

The 60-odd controllers staged a "sickout" yesterday and have vowed to continue their action until their grievances are addressed.

Director of Civil Aviation Tony Archer, confirmed last night that after the 9 p.m. flight, operations would cease until today.

He said operations at the air traffic control manned by management, would resume about 8 a.m.

Operations in that section were crippled yesterday when nine air traffic controllers on the evening shift, stayed away, leaving only management to man the operations.

The controllers say areas of discontent include inadequate transportation to and from work; poor air quality and general working conditions.

They also expressed concern about a faulty piece of equipment used to aid in the landing of aircraft which had broken down again.

But the most serious grievance the air controllers stated was the faulty phone system which cuts off communication between the controllers here and in other countries.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Noel Lynch said last night negotiations were ongoing and his ministry was seeking to create the best working environment for the controllers.

A meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday between all the parties involved. (JW)