More Brits taking ATOL-protected flights

An increasing number of UK travellers bought a flight or holiday protected by the Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL) scheme, according to new figures.

Statistics from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have revealed that 26.3 million Britons travelled under ATOL protection in the 12 months to September 2006, with the number of providers offering such protection rising by five per cent in the same period.

"The figures reflect a range of capacity changes by tour operators in response to the market, as well as some business consolidation and capacity transfers," commented David Moesli, deputy director of the CAA's consumer protection group.

This initiative protects holidaymakers from financial loss or being stuck overseas as a result of a tour operator or flight provider going out of business.

Under the scheme, member firms have to register a bond with the CAA so that any refunds can be given in the event that the worst happens.

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