CAA ‘running scared’ of mini-ATOL debate

MIDCONSORT chief executive Charles Eftichiou has accused the Civil Aviation Authority of running away from a debate on mini-ATOLs.

His comments came after the CAA declined to attend Midconsort’s conference in Morocco, where agents were expected to grill the association over its interpretation of the laws.

“I understand the CAA is very busy, particularly at a time when a couple of operators may go under, but my gut feeling is this was a handy excuse,” he said. “I think the CAA is running scared of getting into a debate on this issue.”

The consortium, in conjunction with ABTA, is in dispute with the CAA over the controversial issue and has produced a document detailing its own interpretation of the complex laws. Central to the row is the phrase ‘pre-arranged’.

In September agents offering split contracts were warned by the CAA they could face prosecution if they avoided applying for a new mini-ATOL licence before it was brought in on October 8.

Eftichiou claimed retailers were not applying for mini- ATOLs because of confusion surrounding the rules – in particular what constitutes a tailor-made holiday and what is pre-arranged travel.

Deputy director of the consumer protection group at the CAA David Moesli denied he was ‘running scared’.

“We’ve been to many ABTA regional meetings but were just unable to go to Morocco. Next Thursday I will be attending another regional meeting in Birmingham where Charles and probably some of his members will be present.”

Meanwhile, agents who hit sales targets will earn a free place at the consortium’s conference, its chief executive has said.

Despite declaring he was happy with the attendance in Morocco, Eftichiou said Midconsort was looking at ways to increase numbers. Almost 50 members were expected to travel to this weekend’s event, slightly less than the supplier contingent.

Eftichiou said: “We are happy with the ratio. We had slightly more member companies this year, but what is significant is that they represent about 75% of our revenue.”