In total, 107 of the 1,296 applications were outstanding on Monday (October 1), up from 84 the previous year (+27%). The CAA has, however, revealed that of these 107 applications, 63 were received during the last week of September.

After TTG reported teething problems with the new online Atol renewal system, the CAA took a bullish stance urging Atol holders to ensure their applications were completed accurately, promptly and in full.

It also warned it would not offer extensions to any applicants who failed to get their applications in in a timely manner.

Michael Budge, the CAA’s Atol spokesperson, said: “We are pleased with the overall performance of the new Atol online system, which in many cases allowed us to achieve a turnaround of less than 48 hours from receipt of the fully completed application to issuance of the offer letter.”

Budge added the CAA would be “seeking feedback from stakeholders” on the process in the coming weeks.

The CAA confirmed on Monday that 1,072 of the 1,296 Atols that expired on September 30 have been granted renewed.

Some 117 did not apply for renewal and have now lapsed, with the remainder (107) awaiting approval.

Businesses without an Atol, even if only temporarily, are not allowed to sell Atol-protected holidays or use the Atol branding.

Any bookings taken prior to renewal though, when the Atol was still valid, are protected irrespective.

“The Civil Aviation Authority confirms that of the 1,296 Atol licences that expired on September 30, 2018, 1,072 have been granted,” Budge added.

“A further 107 Atol holders applied but have not yet been renewed, which is broadly in-line with the previous year. Despite warnings, 63 of these Atol holders applied in the last week of September.

“We thank all those involved with the recent renewal process and we will be seeking feedback from stakeholders in the coming weeks.”