CAA calls for better protection for stranded holidaymakers

Airline Industry Information, July 20, 2004

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2004 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the UK has called on the British government to introduce new legislation to protect holidaymakers stranded when airlines or holiday companies go bust.

The CAA claims that many people don't realise that their holidays are not protected by the Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL) scheme which protects package holidaymakers. The growth of the Internet has seen many people booking flights and accommodation separately, most of which aren't covered by ATOL.

Figures show that in 2003 12m trips from the UK were not protected, with holidaymakers mistakenly believing their holiday insurance covers them.

The CAA believes that a scheme requiring a GBP2 per person cost increase would make enough in five years to cover the collapse of a major airline or holiday company, reports the BBC.

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