TPE steps in to help customers following widespread flight disruption
TransPennine Express (TPE) is offering flexibility to customers whose travel plans have been disrupted by recent air traffic control issues, allowing affected passengers to use their rail tickets on alternative dates and times at no extra charge.
The train operator has introduced the measures to support holidaymakers travelling to and from Manchester Airport after a technical issue caused significant disruption to departing flights across the UK.
Customers holding rail tickets valid to or from Manchester Airport dated Tuesday 8 September or Wednesday 9 September will be able to use those tickets on a new date and time if their flight has been rescheduled as a result of the disruption.
Passengers will also be permitted to use services operated by other train operators, including Northern, to complete their journey.
The move is intended to provide flexibility for passengers whose journeys have been affected by unexpected cancellations and delays.
Under the arrangements, customers travelling to or from the airport on an alternative date must present proof of their revised travel plans alongside their existing rail ticket. This can include a rebooked airline ticket or other confirmation showing the new flight details.
For customers returning from the airport after a cancelled flight, an airline cancellation email will be accepted as proof of disruption. Passengers who have already travelled to Manchester Airport but are now returning home following a cancellation can also use their return rail ticket on the day they travel back, provided they can show evidence of the cancelled flight.
Darren Higgins, Commercial Director at TransPennine Express, said: “We understand how frustrating and stressful travel disruption can be so to help those affected by the recent air traffic control issues, we are allowing customers with eligible rail tickets to travel on an alternative date at no extra cost where their flights have been rebooked.
“Our teams are on hand to assist customers and help them complete their journeys as smoothly as possible.”