Athletic Club/Bilbao stadium Europa League final
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Manchester United are preparing for their Europa League final showdown against Tottenham Hotspur, with plenty at stake for both clubs.
However, a fresh off-pitch issue threatens to complicate matters for thousands of travelling fans.
Supporters heading to Bilbao could be caught in travel chaos according to Manchester Evening News’ Report, with strike action at Gatwick Airport expected to cause significant disruption on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Precisely when many fans are scheduled to fly out.
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The industrial action involves refueling staff employed by Redline Oil Services Limited, who are walking out due to a breakdown in talks over working conditions.
Unite the Union has confirmed that staff will strike from May 16 to May 20, and again from May 23 to May 27.
Flights operated by EasyJet, one of Redline’s main clients, are still available but at eye-watering prices exceeding £900, according to the Mirror.
And while delays or cancellations may occur, passengers are unlikely to receive compensation.
That is because the strikes fall under the “exceptional circumstances” category.
Fans of both United and Spurs have already spent heavily on travel and accommodation, only to now face the risk of further costs and potential last-minute changes.
The timing of the strikes adds further pressure, as supporters look to enjoy what could be a historic all-English European final.
In a slight reprieve, a separate strike planned by Red Handling workers at Gatwick has been temporarily postponed.
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Over 100 staff in baggage handling, check-in and flight dispatch roles were due to walk out, but the action has been suspended following improved terms from the company, pending a members’ vote.
Unite’s regional officer Ben Davis confirmed: “Red Handling has returned to negotiations and made an improved offer.
“Therefore Unite has suspended strike action to allow members to be balloted on the proposals.”
Despite the turbulence, EasyJet claims their contingency plans will keep operations running.
Though with backlogs and mounting costs, many fans are bracing for a difficult few days in their bid to make it to the Europa League final.
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