Management at the benighted Kingfisher Airlines have taken the decision to partially lock out staff after threats were made against the company.

“Acts of criminal intimidation by the same class of recalcitrant employees who have regrettably chosen to take law into their own hands” were blamed for the airline, which has been forced to ground flights.

A company statement added: “In these circumstances, with the safety of passengers in mind, the company is left with no other option but to take firm and decisive steps as advised in law, including disciplinary action.”

Flight operations will be suspended till Thursday at the airline, which has recently been struggling with mounting debts.