In the lead up to summer, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is warning that the expected 20 million consumers on ‘do-it-yourself’ holidays this year could be at financial risk. The CAA warn that holidaymakers who themselves package together flights and accommodation from different suppliers will not be covered under the CAA’s Air Travel Organiser’s Licensing (ATOL) financial protection scheme.Because of this, the CAA is keen to highlight the benefits that booking the whole holiday with one, ATOL-protected company can bring. The ATOL licensing scheme currently protects over 26 million people each year from financial loss or from being stranded abroad should their travel company go bankrupt. Additionally, should any element of the holiday go wrong, the travel company becomes responsible and must either make alternative arrangements for customers or provide adequate compensation.
ATOL spokesman David Clover said: “Our research shows that although millions of holidaymakers will build DIY breaks this summer, they don’t realise they are at risk. Holiday purchases are still a significant household purchase so we want consumers to make informed choices about financial protection. We must also emphasise to those building their own holidays that they may not be protected against the risks of travel company insolvency.”
Glover added: “Booking an entire holiday with one travel company does not mean that consumers have to compromise flexibility for protection. Many of the major online holiday operators allow holidaymakers to build their own tailored ATOL-protected break.
“If consumers are booking DIY holidays this summer, we urge them to take out their own financial protection measures such as buying with their credit card, rather than a debit card, or taking out insurance which covers against the dangers of insolvency.”
ATOL have advised consumers to look out for the ATOL logo on websites and in brochures when booking their holiday. It is also possible to check a company’s details online at www.atol.org.uk. In the twelve months leading up to March 2008, ATOL helped approximately 2,000 customers of failed tour operators to return to the UK and an additional 21,000 to receive a refund of advance payments.
