The powerful US trade union, Teamsters, has confirmed that it will meet Unite representatives today to discuss supporting the looming British Airways (BA) cabin crew strike.
In a statement, the Teamsters said: "We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters at Unite who are fighting for a fair contract at British Airways.
"The Teamsters are an active member of the International Transport Workers Federation. ITF affiliates around the world are mobilising to support British Airways workers in their fight for passenger safety and worker respect."
Unite has played down the meeting, saying that the purpose of the meeting is simply to explain the background of the dispute. It said: "Unite has received a large number of inquiries from unions around the world offering their support to cabin crew."
However, there has been speculation that the involvement of Teamsters, the main US transport union, could mean further disruption for BA passengers, as its members work on ground operations and aircraft services at American airports.
The shadow transport secretary, Theresa Villiers, said: "I gather the aim in talking to these other trade unions is to seek to block BA flights from landing during the period of the dispute."
BA said it was "sad" to see Unite "seeking backing from trade unions overseas to support its unjustified strike against an iconic British brand".
The first strike by BA cabin crew is due to begin on Saturday. 500,000 passengers are due to travel during the three-day strike.
