SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico—Dozens of employees with Puerto Rico's Ports Authority are protesting a plan to privatize management of the island's main international airport.

Union president Astrid Ortiz accuses the agency of intentionally providing substandard service and of misspending money on contracts, among other things.

The 24-hour strike began on Tuesday and comes as Puerto Rico seeks a public-private partnership to oversee the Luis Munoz Marin airport.

Port Authority Board Director President Ruben Hernandez-Gregorat said the agency does not have enough funds to keep operating and improving the airport. He said all airport employees will retain their jobs.