Overview

This bill amends the Civil Aviation Act 1982 to improve regulation of air travel organisers, extending licensing requirements to activities within the European Economic Area and clarifying the operation of the Air Travel Trust. It also enhances information gathering powers for relevant authorities.

Description

The Air Travel Organisers' Licensing Bill makes several key changes:

• Extending Licensing: It extends the existing licensing requirements for air travel organisers to activities within the European Economic Area (EEA) undertaken by UK-based companies.
• Exemptions to Licensing: It allows for exemptions to be granted for air travel organisers who don't provide other services beyond flight accommodation.
• Air Travel Trust Amendments: It allows the Secretary of State to amend the definition of the Air Travel Trust to include additional qualifying trusts, ensuring that the fund can better support those who suffer losses due to travel organizer failures. The amendment process requires parliamentary approval.
• Information Provision: It strengthens the information gathering powers of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Secretary of State by requiring broader reporting from UK-based companies operating within the EEA on air travel services.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify an increase or decrease in government spending. The cost of implementing and enforcing the changes will depend on the resources allocated by the Department for Transport and the CAA.

Groups Affected

• Air Travel Organisers: UK-based companies operating within the EEA will be subject to broader licensing and reporting requirements.
• Consumers: The changes aim to enhance consumer protection by improving regulation of air travel organisers and the Air Travel Trust.
• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): The CAA will have increased responsibilities in licensing and enforcement.
• Secretary of State for Transport: Increased responsibilities in regulating the Air Travel Trust and overseeing information gathering.

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