Manchester United fans heading out to Bilbao ahead of the Europa League final on Wednesday are facing travel chaos as a result of airport strike action that looks set to disrupt many
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A general view of the inside of the stadium prior to the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between Athletic Club and Rangers FC at Estadio de San Mames on April 17, 2025
Fans heading to the Europa League final could find themselves in the midst of travel worries
(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United supporters heading to the Europa League final could be plunged into travel turmoil due to airport strike action.
It potentially leaves fans of the Red Devils and Tottenham Hotspur significantly out of pocket due to potential delays and cancellations.
The industrial action is set to disrupt flights departing from Gatwick Airport next Tuesday and Wednesday, coinciding with when fans are scheduled to fly out to Bilbao.
Refuelling staff employed by Redline Oil Services Limited have decided to strike following the breakdown of discussions over new working conditions.
Despite the potential for delays or cancellations, EasyJet continues to offer flights from Gatwick to Bilbao at prices exceeding £900.
However, passengers may not be eligible for compensation as this situation is considered an exceptional circumstance.
Unite members at Redline plan to strike from Friday, May 16 to May 20, and then again from May 23 to May 27, after rejecting the company's latest pay proposal. The budget airline is one of the firm's primary clients.
Ruben Amorim clapping the fans
Ruben Amorim has the opportunity to win a trophy in his first season at the club
There's also a risk of further delays due to a backlog resulting from the strike action, adding to the financial burden already shouldered by fans who have spent thousands to attend the all-English Europa League final, reports the Mirror.
Supporters have invested heavily in flights, travel, and accommodation for the Tottenham and Manchester United match, but now face potential travel chaos and additional financial strain due to the industrial action.
In related news, planned industrial action by Red Handling workers at Gatwick Airport, initially organised in response to late and missing pension payments, has been postponed to allow members to vote on new working terms.
James Maddison of Tottenham Hotspur reacts toward the fans as he celebrates his goal during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Manchester United FC
Tottenham Hotspur have defeated United three times this season
Over 100 Unite members, employed in key positions such as baggage handling, check-in and flight dispatching, were slated for a walkout this weekend; however, the strike has been deferred.
Unite's regional officer Ben Davis commented on the developments, saying: "Red Handling has returned to negotiations and made an improved offer and therefore Unite has suspended strike action to allow members to be balloted on the proposals."
Reports suggest that EasyJet remains assured their contingency plans will ensure operations continue without disruption.