Air Travel Organiser's Licence: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to obtain an Air Travel Organiser's Licence to legally sell travel packages and provide financial protection to your customers.
This licence provides the legal authority for travel businesses to sell air travel packages while ensuring financial protection for consumers.
Who it's for
This scheme is designed for travel businesses that sell air travel packages. If your business model involves selling flights as part of a larger travel package, you qualify as a travel organiser and must hold this licence to operate legally within the United Kingdom.
What you get
By obtaining this licence, your business gains the official legal authority to sell air travel packages to the public. Beyond just the permission to trade, this scheme provides consumer financial protection. This ensures that if a travel company fails, customers are protected, which helps build trust and legitimacy for your travel agency.
What it costs you
Maintaining this licence involves several financial commitments. You will be required to pay an annual renewal fee to keep your status active. Furthermore, you must meet specific bond or insurance requirements to ensure the financial protection aspect of the licence is fully funded and ready to support consumer needs.
The catch to know
The most common mistake made by businesses is failing to display their ATOL number on all customer invoices. Even if you have the licence, missing this small detail on your documentation can lead to compliance issues regarding how you present your legal status to the public.
How to apply
- Confirm that your business model falls under the definition of selling air travel packages.
- Arrange the necessary financial security, such as the required insurance or bonds.
- Access the official portal to begin your application process.
- Once approved, ensure your ATOL number is clearly printed on every invoice you issue to customers.