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Some 600,000 holidaymakers to repatriate. The bankruptcy of Thomas Cook, the world's oldest travel agency, leaves hundreds of thousands of customers on vacation all over the world. Among them, 150,000 British tourists, 140,000 Germans, and some 10,000 French travelers.
Largest post-war repatriation
The repatriation operation launched on Monday is therefore of a rare magnitude. "The most important post-war repatriation is underway, we will bring everyone home," Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps said on Twitter. an emergency plan dubbed "Operation Matterhorn", named after an American bombing campaign during the Second World War.The aircraft made available by the British Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) began to take off and 14,000 holidaymakers are expected to be back on British soil by Monday, and CAA is adding special planes for this massive operation, which is expected to last until October 6th.
Emergency number
In France, an emergency number (01.45.05.40.81) has been set up for travelers currently on holiday. "They will receive a proposal to return, we are in the context of package travel, there is a legal obligation on the part of operators and we will assume," assured the microphone of Europe 1 René-Marc Chikli , President of the Tour Operators' Union (SETO).
A large number of travelers should be protected by the European Air Travel Trust Fund (ATOL). This system applies for tourists who have purchased an all-inclusive trip with flights and hotels. Tourists already on vacation will be able to finish their stay then return normally, assigned to other companies.
Travelers who have purchased tickets from Thomas Cook only are not covered by ATOL. They can turn to their credit card provider or insurers for a refund. Thomas Cook advises his customers to travel Monday or in the days to come not to take the start to "avoid further difficulties." In a statement, the French subsidiary explained that the refunds can take place "if and when Thomas Cook France will be in cessation of payments". Tourists who have visited partner tour operators are encouraged to contact them.