TransPennine Express strikes still planned for three Sundays

TransPennine Express passengers still face three Sundays of strike disruption in October 2026, despite industrial action planned for Sunday 4 October being suspended. Conductors are due to strike on 11, 18 and 25 October, with passengers being warned that only limited services will operate.

The remaining action affects routes across the TransPennine Express network, including journeys linking major northern cities and airports. Anyone planning Sunday travel later this month should check their individual train before leaving because normal timetable information may change once strike schedules are finalised.

What will run on the strike dates?

Limited TransPennine Express services are expected to operate on 11, 18 and 25 October 2026, but the full strike timetables have not yet been confirmed. Replacement buses will not be provided for trains cancelled because of the industrial action.

Passengers are being advised to travel only if their journey is essential on affected Sundays. Trains that do run are also expected to be much busier than normal, particularly where passengers have fewer alternative services available.

The disruption could affect people travelling for flights from Manchester Airport as well as weekend journeys between cities including Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. Travellers making connections should allow additional time and avoid assuming their usual service will operate.

Why did trains run normally on 4 October?

Strike action originally planned for Sunday 4 October was suspended, allowing services to operate as normal. The later October dates remain on the schedule, meaning passengers should not assume the entire month of action has been cancelled.

Journey planners may initially continue displaying the normal timetable until reduced strike-day schedules are uploaded. Checking again closer to departure is therefore important even if a train currently appears available.

Passengers affected by delays or cancellations may also be entitled to compensation depending on their journey and ticket. Keeping tickets and details of the disrupted journey will make any later claim easier.