Copenhagen’s Kastrup airport has been hit by an unofficial strike from employees upset at canteen outsourcing plans

An unofficial work stoppage at Copenhagen Airport this afternoon has left thousands facing flight delays.

A large number of airport staff, including security personnel, have walked off the job and are attending union meetings in protest against plans to outsource two employee canteens.

Other employees who have downed tools include baggage handlers, the fire department, cleaning crews, technicians and drivers.

Airport management are disappointed with the action because employees have already been promised that the outsourcing won’t lead to job losses.

Airport authorities have said that those who are already checked in will proceed to their flights but other passengers can expect to face delays. There are usually about 25 departures an hour during the middle of the day at the airport.

It has not been possible to get comment from the unions involved.

UPDATE: The employees returned to work after a couple of hours but the airport has warned of delays for the rest of the day.