THE CIVIL Aviation Authority has begun talks with the
trade to train agents to confidently explain the safety net provided by the
package holiday to customers.
First Choice and MyTravel are discussing with the CAA
ways to increase agents’ knowledge of ATOL and ABTA bonding.
It follows a trade backlash against Goldman Sachs’
report about ‘cheaper’ DIY holidays, which operators such as La Manga
specialist Barwell Leisure have branded misleading because of unfair
comparisons and no mention of extras such as transfers.
Barwell Leisure executive chairman Richard Lemmer
said: “We need to hit back.”
The CAA wants agents to be armed with information
about the financial protection of a package, particularly if holidaymakers
claim there are cheaper deals on-line.