CAA issues reminder of Atol renewal deadline

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued a reminder that September Atol renewal applications are due in by Tuesday September 1, so there are only days left to take advantage of a discounted renewal fee.

The CAA offered discounted fees for renewal in July to encourage earlier applications.

It made the highest discount available to Atol companies submitting applications before August 1, with additional savings for those paying by direct debit, saying it aimed “support a smoother renewal process and reduce last-minute pressure on both businesses and the regulator’s licensing team”.

Fees for applications made in August are higher up to the end of the month but still below the rate for applications made on or after September 1.

For example, a small franchise Atol renewal fee which is currently £750 will rise to £869. The cost of a standard Atol, with both the renewal fee and subsequent Atol Contribution Payments (APCs) paid by direct debit, will rise from £1,690 to £1,960 – and to £2,240 without direct debit payments.

The CAA noted: “Submitting complete applications in advance helps ensure they can be processed ahead of the deadline, enabling companies to continue selling Atol-protected holidays without interruption from 1 October.”

It points out that businesses not renewing Atols on time risk being in breach of the regulations and unable to sell package holidays until the process is completed. 

Full details of Atol renewal fees and discounts can be found here.