Ask a Travel Agent: What to do if your tour operator goes into administration

Melissa:  That must have been very stressful. I hope you booked through a travel agent and tour operator because your rights and expected services depend on how you booked your holiday. For UK travellers with an ATOL- (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) protected package, the Civil Aviation Authority should ensure you can complete your holiday and arrange your return flight. This protection prevents you from being stranded or facing financial loss due to the operator’s insolvency.
Under EU Package Travel Regulations which remains adopted legislation in the UK), similar protections apply, mandating tour operators to have insolvency measures for refunds and repatriation. Check too if your travel insurance covers the operator’s financial failure, which might cover additional costs or offer refunds for services not provided.
If these protections don’t apply, contact your embassy or consulate for assistance, although they typically don’t cover travel costs. Should you need to self-arrange a return journey, paying by credit card offers
potential recourse under the Consumer Credit Act’s Section 75, which might cover the costs. In essence, your protection hinges on your holiday’s booking details and any travel insurance you hold, highlighting the
importance of understanding these aspects for such situations. Professional travel agents, like Charitable Travel, will support you navigate this situation.