Luxury long-haul operator Tropical Sky is quitting Abta, claiming membership of the association does not provide value for money.
The direct sell company has tendered its resignation as a principal-only member of the association.
As it sells direct, the operator says it considers that Abta is no longer relevant for a predominantly Atol principal nor provides value in return for the substantial subscription and membership costs.
Managing director Mike Collins said: “We have enjoyed a good relationship with Abta for a number of years but have questioned its relevance for a predominantly Atol covered business.
“We hold a full Atol licence, which provides our packaged customers with financial protection.
“Our Abta membership did not involve any customer protection at all – simply a good and credible consumer recognised badge.”
He added: “In recent years, the Civil Aviation Authority has achieved a greater awareness of Atol and we have found that this is the badge customers are now looking for, rather than Abta, whom most now understand does not provide protection for flight related holidays.
“The annual costs do not equate to the value that the Abta logo provides.”