CAA Sends Out ATOL Reminder to the Travel Industry

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has reminded holidaymakers of the importance of booking with an ATOL protected travel company, after contacting over 100 travel businesses in the UK that it believes may be continuing to sell air packages without necessary protection of an Air Travel Organisers License (ATOL).

The Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) suggests that many large travel companies need to hold an ATOL in order to comply with the terms of new a guide for what makes up a travel package. The CAA has now investigated firms which may need an ATOL and sent out letters, which sets out the legal position and invites them to apply for a licence. ATOL, which is managed by the CAA, protects travellers from losing money or being stranded abroad when they buy air holidays and flights from travel organisers.

Andy Cohen, Head of ATOL Licensing at the CAA, said: “In the early part of this year we had fruitful discussions with major companies which understood the regulatory position as outlined in the BERR guidance. These firms, both current ATOL holders and new applicants, responded positively and consequently an additional 400,000 UK holidaymakers will have the benefit of ATOL protection in the next 12 months.

“The letter we are sending today reminds other firms of the need to consider whether they are selling air packages and we are prepared to discuss their activities with them and give advice on ATOL requirements". All tour operators selling flights and air holidays must hold a licence from the CAA.