Members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) will strike on TransPennine Express routes on three Sundays in October 2026, specifically on the 11th, 18th, and 25th. The industrial action will lead to significant disruptions including train cancellations and a reduced timetable.
Affected Routes and Nature of Disruptions
The strikes will impact key TransPennine Express services running through York and North Yorkshire, covering routes to Scarborough, Newcastle, Manchester Airport, and Liverpool. Passengers should expect cancellations and a limited service across affected routes on the strike days. Trains that operate will run to a significantly reduced timetable and are anticipated to be very
busy.
Official Statements and Passenger Advisories
A National Rail spokesperson confirmed, “There is industrial action planned to take place that will affect TransPennine Express services on most Sundays throughout October.” The spokesperson added, “Trains across the TransPennine network will be running to a reduced timetable with cancellations likely, on these three Sundays.” Passengers were advised to travel on the affected dates only if their journey is essential due to the disruption. RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey stated, “The union will remain in dispute until a satisfactory agreement can be reached with the employer.”
Background on Negotiations and Previous Strike Suspension
Strike action scheduled for Sunday, October 4, 2026, was suspended after TransPennine
Express agreed to resume productivity negotiations with the RMT. Despite the temporary halt, the union maintains that the overall dispute remains unresolved. The ongoing conflict centers on conditions requiring further agreement before the strikes can be called off.
