New legislation to protect holiday makers has been welcomed by Durham County Council’s Trading Standards service. The extension of the Air Travel Organisers Licensing (ATOL) scheme, which came into force recently, means that millions more holidaymakers than before will be protected if their tour operator collapses.
Changes mean that ‘Flight Plus’ trips –deals sold by travel agents or tour operators where travellers have the flexibility to match preferred flights with preferred accommodation- now have the same protections as those booking a traditional package holiday. Head of environment and consumer protection, Joanne Waller, said: “Any moves which offer greater protection to our residents when they book holidays should be welcomed.
“However, it is vital that people know the limitations of this additional cover and further measures they can take.”
Cabinet member for strategic environment, Cllr Bob Young, said: “In these tough economic times we welcome any measures to protect consumers.”
The ATOL scheme entitles travellers to a refund in the event of a holiday firm collapsing.
However, it only covers customers booking flights and accommodation or car hire together through an online or high street travel agent or tour operator, but not if booked through an airline. To qualify for the cover the flights and accommodation must also be booked within two days of each other and with the same provider.
From October, a certificate will be issued to each customer to clarify whether they are covered by the scheme.
Travellers should always try to use an ABTA registered company. That way, anyone unhappy with any aspect of the trip or the travel company’s response, ABTA can provide an independent arbitration and compensation scheme.
For further information on your consumer rights when booking holidays, call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on: 08454 04 05 06.