More competition needed to stop airlines ripping off Irish soccer fans – Doherty

Greater choice on popular air travel routes must be provided to consumers to stop airlines from overcharging Irish fans attending the FA Cup Final on the 25th May, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Regina Doherty, Fine Gael candidate for the European Elections in Dublin, has highlighted that airlines have greatly increased the cost of return flights from Dublin to London on the weekend of the 25th May, when the FA Cup final will be played between Manchester United and Manchester City in Wembley Stadium, London.

Senator Doherty said: “I know there are countless Irish fans of the FA Cup and many will be travelling to London for what promises to be a thrilling final. Unfortunately, it seems that the airlines that fly that popular route have sought to take advantage of this event by massively increasing the price of return tickets and ripping off fans. This is a real insult to Irish soccer fans.

“A cursory glance at price comparison websites shows that flights from Dublin to London on the morning of the 25th May, which are usually available at good value, are now all well over €100, and often over €150 in order to be on time for the match.

“Prices for return flights on the 26th May are even worse, often over or just below €300 for a direct flight. This puts huge cost pressures on fans, even before you factor in the cost of accommodation in London.

“One of the strengths of the European Union to date has been in guaranteeing better consumer rights, choice, and competition and this is something I want to reinforce if I am elected to the European Parliament.

“Airline customers should be able to avail of better value and more competition for busy routes, such as between Dublin and London.

“It is very disappointing that airlines are seeking to take advantage of Irish fans who are travelling for the match. Prices are above and beyond what they normally are. I am calling on regulators to ensure that the route is not dominated by a small number of companies in order to ensure better competition and value for Irish customers.”