A British Airways flight attendant has claimed she woke up screaming in terror to find her colleague sexually assaulting her, forcing the airline to cancel two flights and leave hundreds of passengers stranded.

The cabin crew reported the man to police, claiming he molested her while she was awake while the pair were in bed with a third male colleague in an airline hotel room.

This comes after she spent the previous night hanging out with both of them.

BA has “immediately terminated” (the man) and it is understood he will be formally suspended while investigations continue.

The suspect was later sent back to the UK from Rio.

The devastated crew members were reportedly so angry that three of them were unable to continue working.

Two flights were then cancelled, leaving hundreds of passengers scrambling to find hotels.

The BA crew flew to Brazil from London on a passenger flight earlier this month and describe enjoying a break.

A British Airways flight attendant claimed she woke up screaming in terror after finding her colleague sexually assaulting her

BA crew flew to Rio (pictured) in Brazil from London on a passenger flight earlier this month and describe enjoying a break.

They were having some drinks in bars and nightclubs in Rio when, after returning to the hotel, the victim allegedly woke up to find one of her male colleagues masturbating and touching her.

The crew was to operate BA transfer services from Rio to Buenos Aires and back.

Authorities in Rio allowed the alleged sex offender to fly home on a BA flight as a passenger.

He was picked up by Scotland Yard, who are now investigating allegations of sexual assault.

The Sun says it understands the alleged female victim met Scotland Yard officers and gave them accounts of what happened in Rio.

A source said: “This incident has traumatized some staff and shocked everyone at BA.

“It is not known how the crew member ended up in bed with two male colleagues. But the group had been out drinking the night before.

“An evening filled with tragedy the night before led to an incredibly serious and upsetting allegation the next morning that could end careers and lead to criminal convictions.

“Some of the people involved have long-term partners at home and the consequences of this are devastating for many people.

“BA has provided support to those who need it and bosses are doing all they can in an incredibly difficult situation.”

Last night British Airways said: “It would be inappropriate to comment during a police investigation.”

Scotland Yard added: “Police are investigating an allegation of sexual assault against a 33-year-old woman while she was abroad in South America.

“The crime allegedly took place on November 10.

“The victim is being supported by specialist officers.

“There were no arrests. Research is ongoing.

“We recognize the courage it takes for someone to report a sex offense to the police and we are committed to ensuring that those who do take this step are properly supported and that their reports are thoroughly investigated.”