British Airways has apologised to passengers for delays after an IT glitch hit check-in systems.

Angry travellers complained of hours queuing at airports and some reported they had been told the problem was worldwide.

Responding to passengers on Twitter, the airline wrote: "We apologise to our customers for the delay and we appreciate their patience as our IT teams work to resolve this issue."

It added: "Our colleagues are doing everything possible to check in customers for their journey."

One passenger stranded at Toronto Airport said: "I guess the check in application is down and it's world wide."

Ewan Crawford, of Glasgow, said he was at Chicago O'Hare International Airport.

He tweeted: "Never a good sign when they deliver water to the gate! Waiting at ORD for @British_Airways 296. Worldwide computer outage apparently! Hmm.

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