Consortia introduces protected self-packaging
The Global Travel Group is this week introducing a Group ATOL that will allow members to sell self-packaged holidays that are protected in the event of supplier failure.
GTG successfully applied for the Group ATOL in April and is now setting about explaining the CAA policies and procedures to its members. The programme it has outlined includes a series of open days throughout this week and a 48-page information pack for members. GTG has also set up a help desk number for members with questions.
There are limitations on the products that can be self-packaged but the ATOL now allows agents to legally package schedule and charter flights including no-frills airlines, with hotels, car hire, insurance, and other travel products.
An ATOL booking fee of ?10 per passenger will be passed onto consumers. According to GTG, it covers the cost of the Group bond, administration, full insurance cover, legal fees and associated marketing costs.
Group operations director Andrew Botterill said: “We have not made a false promise and delivered an incomplete solution unlike other consortia and buying groups. We have provided a comprehensive legal framework to protect oru members, which by January 2005 will be extended to cover our ABTA bonded Independent Options members.”
GTG says it has done much to help its members to compete with online agents and direct-sell operators. This includes the launch of dynamic packaging capabilities using various online offerings such as globalairfaresonline.com and Global Travel Web.
Report by Ginny McGrath
Ginny McGrath
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