UK travel company collapses into administration after 55 years
Holidaymakers have also been warned to check thoroughly before making any bookings.
A UK travel company has entered into liquidation after being in the business for 55 years. Ickenham Travel Group, which started with just one shop, was founded in 1970 by chief executive Peter Reglar.
The revelation was made by the Civil Aviation Authority sharing that the travel company ceased trading as an Atol holder last month on November 20. On the CAA’s Atol failures page, it said the group was based in London and traded under the name Abu Dhabi Holidays, Ras Al Khaimah Holidays, Letsgo2 and websites: www.ickenham-travel.co.uk, www.letsgo2.com, www.rasalkhaimahholidays.com, www.abudhabiholidays.co.uk, www.jaresortholidays.com, www.justallinclusive.com, www.ickenhamtravel.com.
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For customers with Atol‑protected package bookings who are currently overseas and already hold a scheduled flight e‑ticket, the CAA has confirmed that their existing return flights will still operate as planned. This means travellers do not need to make alternative arrangements or purchase new tickets, as their original booking remains valid despite the wider disruption.
In a statement, it said: "You are advised to check-in with the airline as per the existing flight ticket."
The CAA said it is speaking to service providers for the other elements of trips to ensure these continue as planned. The CAA added: "If you have an Atol flight inclusive package booking and have been issued with flight tickets, the flights may be valid for travel, and you are advised to check with the airline.
"If the airline confirms you have a valid ticket for travel, you may have the option to travel. However, other services may not have been paid to the local suppliers, and you will be required to re-arrange and pay for these services again. To avoid any issues in resort, you should confirm the cost of all the services in advance of travel where possible."
Holidaymakers have also been warned to check thoroughly before making any bookings. The statement further stated: "Please note that if you choose to travel and use your valid flight, you are not protected under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 as your package travel provider has ceased to trade.
"You will therefore be responsible for any risks arising from each individual element of your trip which would have previously been protected.
"Bookings sold as accommodation only, Non-flight Packages & Cruise Only Bookings which do not include a flight element are not protected by the ATOL scheme."
