ATOL (Air Travel Organisers Licensing) protection is a financial protection scheme that safeguards travelers' money if their travel company or airline ceases trading. The scheme covers travelers who book a package trip that includes a flight. ATOL protection covers travelers before and during their trip. When a traveler purchases a trip that is ATOL protected, they will receive an ATOL Certificate that shows who and what is covered and provides guidance on what to do if their travel company stops trading as an ATOL holder. The ATOL scheme ensures that consumers are not stranded abroad or do not lose money paid to the travel organiser for holidays and flights. Every UK travel company that sells overseas holidays and flights is required to hold a license in case an operator ceases trading. The scheme is funded by contributions from the travel companies. ATOL protection covers the following:
- Reimbursing travelers for any money they spent to replace ATOL protected parts of their trip, e.g., car hire, transfers.
- Arranging flights home, depending on the circumstances.
If a traveler books an ATOL protected flight, they will receive an ATOL Certificate after making a payment. However, they will not receive a valid e-ticket in exchange for payment. If a traveler purchases an airline ticket from an airline or travel company and receives a valid e-ticket in exchange for payment, the ATOL scheme does not cover this.
