US judge accepts British Air plea in price fixing

WASHINGTON, Aug 23 (Reuters) - A U.S. judge accepted a guilty plea on Thursday by British Airways Plc (BAY.L: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) in a transatlantic price fixing case, and considered approval of a proposed $300 million fine.

U.S. District Judge John Bates was expected to rule shortly on the penalty.

British Airways admitted colluding with rivals on surcharges on passenger fares and cargo to help ease the impact of sharp increases in fuel prices. (Reporting by Peter Kaplan)