Holiday Operator Insolvency: ATOL Protection
Your holiday operator went bust and the holiday is cancelled. If they had an ATOL certificate, you are fully protected. Claim via the Civil Aviation Authority within 28 days.
Quick Answer
Check your booking confirmation for ATOL certificate number. Call CAA Insolvency Service within 28 days of collapse. You will be refunded 100% of the holiday price. CAA also covers flights separately. Non-ATOL holidays? Try Section 75 chargeback or travel insurance claim.
Is Your Operator ATOL Protected?
Look at your booking confirmation. ATOL certificate must be shown with number. Call the operator, check their website, or phone CAA on 020 7453 6700 to verify. Most UK tour operators are ATOL licensed. If no ATOL, you have no statutory protection (only Section 75 or insurance).
CAA Insolvency Claims Process
- Phone CAA Insolvency Service: 020 7453 6700
- Provide: operator name, ATOL number, booking reference, amount paid
- CAA will confirm coverage and initiate refund
- Refund processed within 8-10 weeks
No ATOL? Try Section 75 or Insurance
If paid by credit card, claim under Section 75 Consumer Credit Act. Card issuer must refund. If insured, claim via travel insurance policy. Both usually faster than court.