Why would we?

We are very reasonably boycotting the invitation to comment on the CAA’s latest consultation: to increase their charges.

The numerous consultations that the industry have been asked to comment on are nothing more than a device for civil servants to appear to be doing something. In the past we have made a determined and comprehensive effort to help the CAA’s thinking. However there has been no reform of financial regulation in travel, despite clear detriment to the consumer and the tax-payer in not doing so.

In the area of consumer financial protection the CAA/ATOL continue to drag their feet. Asking the same questions of the same biased stakeholders:

ATOL Reform - Closed 16 August 2021 and again in March 2023 without any decisions. This consultation was meant to address the scandalous situation that embezzlement of client money in travel is legal – despite being regulated against in every other major industry. Take 3 is due next year.

The DFT and DBT have also prevaricated over reform of the Package Travel Regulations to address the linked travel loophole and also the Air Insolvency Review. Both to the detriment of the consumer.


It will be interesting to observe whether the CAA’s consultation to award themselves additional funding is completed with greater urgency than addressing the gaping short comings in the protection of consumer money.

The protection of client funds in travel is a long running travesty. We are taking advice in relation to the Subsidy Control Act 2022, which the ATT appears to breach. More to follow.