The workers' union made the decision Thursday night at a meeting in Brasilia, the country's capital, after the company failed in reaching an agreement with the workers over a change in the company's board of directors.

There was not a set date for the strike to end, the workers' union said.

The workers, who managed to enter the company through competitive exams, demand a change in the board of directors which they said is occupied by outsiders who have signed special contracts with the company.

The current members of the board are not familiar with the company's internal work, therefore they do not know how to communicate with the airport workers or address operational problems, according to Francisco Lemos, president of the workers' union.

The workers also demand a raise in salaries, allowances and Christmas bonuses.

Many of Brazil's main commercial airports, including Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo International Airports, have agreed to join the strike. Only a minimum amount of staff will stay at work to ensure the operation and security of the airports, said Lemos.

The union is to distribute pamphlets written in Portuguese and English Friday to warn passengers about the strike and the inconveniences it may bring.