By Doualy Xaykaothao

MPR.org/90.1 FM

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport workers told officials at a Metropolitan Airports Commission meeting Monday that they are ready to stage a one-day strike if a Delta subcontractor, Air Serv Corp., does not meet their demands.

Those demands include higher pay, improved conditions and recognition of their right to form a union.

Matt Ellingson, a regional vice president for Air Serv, said the company was working to reach an agreement that would protect employee choice, smooth airport operations and avoid disruptions to the traveling public.

Sahra Mohamed, 25, cleans the inside of airplanes and drives workers to and from airplanes in a van.

“Sometimes we say we’re very hungry, we’re feeling hot, the vans are very hot, we need a break,” she said. “You can’t even take a break, nobody covers your spot.”

The workers say about 700 employees are involved in the possible strike, including wheelchair escorts, cart drivers and cabin cleaners. They say no date has been set for the action.