News

A three-day strike by British Airways cabin crew affecting thousands of travelers has begun after last-ditch talks between the airline''s management and union leaders collapsed.

The walkout, which began Saturday, has forced BA to cancel thousands of flights, but it still hopes to operate around 65 percent of its international schedule over the period.

The Unite union has gathered some support from unions in the United States, Germany and Spain for its action -taken to protest a pay freeze and changes to working conditions- but the other unions have so far stopped short of pledging direct action that would affect BA''s ability to refuel and service its planes.

A total of 1,100 flights out of the 1,950 flights scheduled to operate during the walkout will be canceled.