Flights Through the Roof

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http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23829692-fulham-fans-stung-as-cost-of-flights-to-hamburg-rises-7-fold.do


Fulham fans stung as cost of flights to Hamburg rises 7-fold

Matthew Beard, Sports News Correspondent

 

30.04.10

Airlines were today accused of "profiteering" at the expense of Fulham fans after the cost of flying to Germany to watch the Europa League final rocketed to £700.

Fulham have urged their supporters to make travel arrangements through the club after airlines bumped up prices on flights to Hamburg following last night's heroic semi-final victory.

Advice from the club came as easyJet were charging £699 for a return flight from Gatwick to Hamburg or £694 from Luton – around seven times the usual fare – to watch the May 12 final against Spanish side Atletico Madrid.

Spokesman for fans' group the Football Supporters' Federation, Michael Brunskill, said: "It's really disappointing to see a company taking advantage of football fans and profiteering in this way."

Fulham have an allocation of 12,400 tickets. A spokeswoman said they were trying to lay on extra flights for fans.

The official club website is offering season ticketholders a package of £465 for a return flight and one night's accommodation excluding tickets, or a coach trip for £115.

Fulham director of communications Sarah Brookes said: "We have lots of travel options on our website and would encourage fans to use official travel offers. We are also looking to put on more flights to meet demand."