RCNs were issued for flight-inclusive packages when customers postponed their travel plans during the pandemic.

RCNs were given Atol protection in July 2020, backdated to 10 March 2020 and extended until 19 December 2021. Although notes are still valid, they will no longer be financially safeguarded from 30 September.

The CAA said: “If a travel company stops trading after 30 September 2022, consumers with outstanding Atol refund credit notes will not be covered by the scheme, and they risk losing out on the money they have paid.

The CAA said consumers should “make sure they act before the end of September” and either redeem it against another Atol-protected booking or ask for a refund.
 
RCN redemption expiry dates will vary depending on individual travel companies. The CAA has run a social media campaign throughout September reminding of the need to act.
 
The CAA’s head of Atol Michael Budge said: “This will affect customers of some of our biggest travel firms, so our message is simple – this is the last chance to make sure you continue to be financially protected by the Atol scheme. 
 
“Even if your refund credit note is valid after the end of September, it won’t enjoy Atol protection. It is better to be safe than sorry, and we are urging people still holding one of these refund credit notes to take action now.”