What is ATOL and what does it do for me?
ATOL is a protection scheme for flights and air holidays, managed by the Civil Aviation Authority (“CAA”). Most firms who sell air travel in the UK are required by law to hold a licence called an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (“ATOL”).
If you've booked and contracted with a tour operator for a complete air holiday package or just a flight, ATOL protects you from losing money or being stranded abroad if the tour operator goes out of business. All licensed firms have to lodge bonds with the CAA so that if they go out of business, the CAA can give refunds to people who can’t travel and arrange for people abroad to finish their holidays and fly home. There's also a Government-backed fund called the Air Travel Trust that steps in if any ATOL bond isn’t enough to look after everyone affected by the failure.
What other benefits are there if I book a package with a tour operator?
Under the Package Travel Regulations, package organisers are responsible for all the items in the package they sell to you. This means if there's a problem with any of the suppliers involved with your holiday the organiser should sort it out. You also have recourse to the organiser (in the UK) if there are problems with your holiday arrangements, such as transport and accommodation and health and safety issues.
How can I check I'm ATOL Protected before I book?
Only companies that are ATOL registered can display the ATOL logo on their websites, stationary and brochures. If you don't see the ATOL logo, you are not protected. Interlink are registered and this means you can book your inspection trip with us worry free.
