ABTA is aware that Monarch Travel Group has, regrettably, ceased trading. 

Monarch Travel Group operated an airline business and several businesses that sold holidays and other travel arrangements, including one ABTA Member company, Monarch Holidays Ltd.

We understand that the CAA is managing a planned programme of repatriating 110,000 customers who are currently overseas, over the next two weeks.  The CAA have advised that for customers not due to return immediately, there is no requirement to cut short their stay.

ABTA’s immediate aim is to help customers to navigate through the process of either continuing with their holiday arrangements, recovering their money, or rebooking their travel arrangements.  

We are also providing ABTA Member companies, who may have customers travelling on Monarch flights or using other services, with the most up to date guidance and information.

The vast majority of holidaymakers’ arrangements will be covered through different types of financial protection including credit and some debit card schemes, and they will either be entitled to a refund, or if they’ve booked through another travel company, they should contact them to discuss options which may include re-booking or alternative arrangements.  

As there are a number of different companies involved, what customers should do next will depend on what kind of travel arrangement they have booked and with whom.  

ABTA has developed specific guidance for customers in relation to each individual company, including how to progress a claim where applicable, which is available at abta.com/monarch. 

Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive, said: “This will be an anxious and distressing time for Monarch staff, customers and industry colleagues.  As the Government undertakes its programme of repatriating passengers who are overseas, ABTA will assist in whatever way we can.  Information on our website will help customers and Members to navigate through the process of either making a claim or continuing with holiday plans.”

Notes:

Customers who are currently overseas

Customers who are currently overseas should contact the CAA. The CAA will advise on return flight arrangements.

Customers who have a forward booking/ are due to travel

Customers who have booked with a Monarch Travel Group company should visit abta.com/monarch where we have specific guidance on next steps and how to progress a claim through their card issuer or through another type of financial protection, if required.