Here are some links to a description of how I do air layers Howard but it is perfectly applicable to your fig.

http://forums.gardenweb.com/discussions/3855273/wollemi-propagation

http://forums.gardenweb.com/discussions/3855279/wollemi-propagation-part2

http://forums.gardenweb.com/discussions/4592452/wollemi-marcot-update

The fig will be much easier to root though. King roots pretty easily from dormant cuttings here in South Australia & is the finest fig in the cool hills where I live but your idea will work & figs are very able to sprout below the layer. If you girdle the stems leaving a narrow 'bridge' as I show in the early posts of the Wollemi layer you'll get great results. With figs hormone shouldn't be needed & in some cases has detrimental results on fig cuttings, maybe try with & without..... no need to have leaves below your air layers with a deciduous fig, just leave the layers until well rooted & the base will re-shoot in spring if not before

Cheers,

Peter

Thanks, Peter I went and did the air layers the other day, I've been posting in the FIG forum you can see my updates there.

http://forums.gardenweb.com/discussions/4588083/air-layer-question?n=9

Howard, it's vital to cover your outdoor air layers with aluminum foil or they'll cook in the sun. As you would've seen from mine on the Wollemi if you followed the above links I left it a year with no problems

Thanks Peter I will cover with foil.