Economy flight packages the goal as Premier fans follow the Champions

WITH eight teams jostling for places in the semi-finals after yesterday’s Champions League draw, another type of match was taking place in the background for thousands of supporters — the battle to find an economy flight.

Even before the draw was made prices had been increased by the main carriers for flights to Dortmund/Dusseldorf (nearest airports for Schalke), Rome, Istanbul and Barcelona — the four potential venues for Premier League teams. And once the draws were confirmed they were increased again.

For a visit to Istanbul, Chelsea fans could be expected to stump up €318 for a return flight from British Airways via Heathrow on the day of the match compared to €180 two days later. Easyjet quoted a one-way price on match-day of €202 from Luton compared to €91 the following day. By mid-afternoon prices had risen to more than €550 return.