ATOL-protected holidaymakers will be able to book with confidence following a Government move to protect refund credit notes offered if packages are cancelled as a result of COVID-19.
The change, which will apply to package holidays including a flight, will mean passengers who accept vouchers for cancelled holidays as a result of COVID-19 will be protected by the ATOL scheme if necessary – even if the company they have booked with later collapses.
Following this news, Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO at Advantage Travel Partnership said: “We very much welcome the long awaited announcement from Government to protect refund credit notes offered if ATOL protected package holidays are cancelled as a result of COVID-19. This important move will certainly help to rebuild confidence in the industry which was severely damaged due to many passengers having to endure long waits for refunds as the pandemic hit.
“Even as the world begins to slowly reopen its doors, travel anywhere will remain an uncertain and complex experience, so it is vital that consumers can start to plan a holiday in the full knowledge they are protected if they cannot travel due to COVID-19 related issues.
“To help consumers navigate their way through new airport and destination protocols, new health requirements and a different type of holiday experience we have created a check list for our travel agent members to ensure that consumers are fully informed and know before they go. The check list ensures the travel agent covers off all destination requirements for entry as well as reminds customers to review their insurance policies to ensure they are currently fit for purpose.
“Since the recent announcement of a number of quarantine free countries, we have seen an encouraging uplift in bookings. We do urge consumers not to panic buy holidays, to chat through every aspect of their holiday experience with a travel agent who will ensure they know what to expect and have the holiday they deserve.”
