Sources close to the regime have told TTG they expect the process to be pushed back 28 days.

Atol holders typically apply to renew their licences in two windows, one closing at the end of March and the other at the end of September.

The process was extended last year into October, though, owing to the collapse of Thomas Cook.

The CAA has so far declined to comment when approached by TTG regarding the spring extension. One source, though, told TTG they expected an announcement on Tuesday (17 March) or Wednesday (18 March).

Abtot, the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust, tweeted on Tuesday renewals were progressing, adding the CAA had granted an extended deadline for Atol licences.

Several travel organisations and associations have called for the requirements of the Travel Package Regulations to be suspended due to the unprecedented situation facing tour operators, and to potentially prevent clients seeking refunds for cancellations to retain cash.

Alan Bowen, legal advisor to the Association of Atol Companies, told TTG the CAA had in recent days stepped up its demand for information from Atol holders on bookings, cash flow and what the likely impact of any significant drop in turnover would be.