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Number of Atol-protected company failures doubles

More than 16,500 Atol-protected holidaymakers were helped with refunds and repatriation through the Air Travel Trust a cost of £14.7 million in the last financial year.

The number of failures in 2016-17 almost doubled from the 10 Atol holder companies which collapsed in the previous 12-month period.

All Leisure Holidays was the largest of 19 Atol holder failures in the year to March 2017.

Air Travel Trust funds were used to fly home 282 passengers who were abroad when their travel company collapsed during the 12 months.

It also ensured that 16,608 holidaymakers, yet to travel, received a full refund.

The number of Atol protected bookings was marginally down, following five years of steady growth, with 24.9 million holidaymakers protected by the Atol scheme last year, down from 25.2 million the year before.

At the end of financial financial year 2016-17 the ATT fund had a surplus of £145 million, up from £139 million the previous year – the fifth consecutive year the fund has shown a surplus.

The total amount received in Atol Protection Contributions (APC) was £62.3 million.

The latest figures are revealed today as the Air Travel Trust published its annual report and accounts.

Air Travel Trust chairman Michael Medlicott said: “In the last 12 months the UK travel industry has faced a number of challenges, including unfavourable currency exchange movements, limited economic growth and a reduction in consumer confidence.

“Furthermore there are a number of on-going geo-political situations, which are having a significant impact on key destinations and these continue to present concerns for holidaymakers.

“In the light of all these factors, the travel market has held up very well, which reflects the high priority consumers attach to their holidays.

“I am also pleased that consumers continue to have trust and confidence in the Atol brand.”

See more: 

All Leisure Group ceases trading

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