Ickenham Travel Group Collapses Into Administration After 55 Years
Historic Travel Firm Ceases Trading
The Civil Aviation Authority has announced that Ickenham Travel Group ceased trading as an Atol holder on November 20, marking the end of a travel business that had operated for more than half a century. The company, incorporated on 6 August 1970, is now in administration, leaving customers and the travel industry grappling with the implications of this significant collapse.
The Ickenham Travel Group was founded in 1970 by chief executive Peter Reglar, initially as a single shop on Ickenham High Street. Over the decades, the business expanded its operations and developed multiple brands to serve different market segments.
Multiple Brands Affected by Collapse
The group was based in London and traded under the name Abu Dhabi Holidays, Ras Al Khaimah Holidays, Letsgo2 and websites: www.ickenham-travel.co.uk, www.letsgo2.com, www.rasalkhaimahholidays.com, www.abudhabiholidays.co.uk, www.jaresortholidays.com, www.justallinclusive.com, www.ickenhamtravel.com. The collapse has therefore affected customers who booked through any of these trading names.
What This Means for Affected Customers
For customers with Atol-protected package bookings who are currently overseas with scheduled flight e-ticket, the CAA said the flight remains valid for the return journey. However, the situation is more complex for those yet to travel. Consumers should not make any further payments to the failed ATOL holder after 20th November 2025, as these monies will not be ATOL protected and will not be considered for a refund under the ATOL scheme.
The CAA has advised affected customers to check whether their flights remain valid by contacting their airline directly. Bookings sold as accommodation only, Non-flight Packages & Cruise Only Bookings which do not include a flight element are not protected by the ATOL scheme, meaning customers with such bookings will need to contact the company’s administrators once appointed.
Industry Impact and Customer Protection
This collapse serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ATOL protection when booking holidays. The failure of Ickenham Travel Group, after 55 years in business, demonstrates that even established travel companies can face financial difficulties. Customers with valid ATOL-protected bookings have recourse through the scheme, though the claims process may take time. The CAA is currently collating information and will update guidance for affected customers as the administration process unfolds.