Which? responds as CAA launches next stage of ATOL reform

Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy said: "This further call for evidence is a welcome step forward towards strengthening consumer protections in a sector that has seen several major insolvencies in recent years, with an opportunity to make the scheme more financially sound and strengthen the financial protection of holiday payments. 

"The government must also urgently set out legislation to give the CAA stronger enforcement powers, so that it can properly regulate the aviation sector. Without decisive action, some airlines will continue to neglect their legal responsibilities and mistreat passengers, as we have seen repeatedly in the last few years."

• Which? is currently campaigning to, and at the time of writing, over 43,000 people have signed the consumer champion's petition to the Secretary of State for Transport demanding urgent action. Please find a link to view the petition
• The consumer champion is calling for:

Enforcement - The CAA should be doing more by holding airlines to account proactively. It also needs direct powers to monitor and fine airlines when they flout the rules. Resolution - We need a dispute resolution system that is mandatory for all airlines flying to and from the UK so travellers don't have to go to the small claims court to enforce their rights.

Compensation - We need to protect passengers' rights to redress when airlines are at fault for delays and cancellations. Proposals to slash pay-outs for domestic flights must be dropped