News

A statement on the Iberia Web site says the 48-hour stoppage starting midnight Sunday will affect domestic, European and trans-Atlantic flights, about a quarter of Iberia''s flights.

The strike has been called by labor unions representing some 4,300 staff, who want an end to a four-year pay freeze. They say other Iberia workers, such as pilots, have had wage increases.

Stoppages are also planned for Nov. 10 and 11. Iberia says affected passengers will be entitled to refunds or tickets on other days.

It says it regrets that unions should call strikes for pay rises when the aviation sector is being so badly hit by the international economic crisis.