The statement from Thomas Cook came after reports in The Sunday Times suggested the 173-year-old tour operator had sounded out a number of potential buyers, which the newspaper said included rival carriers as well as private equity investors.

One suggestion was a possible tie-up with Monarch, with the company’s former management team reportedly having previously studied plans to combine the two.

Industry sources have also said other private equity firms are exploring how to consolidate the air fleets of tour operators, although joint ventures are thought to be more likely than outright sales.

Harriet Green explored similar plans while she was chief executive, however no parties have so far been persuaded to agree to a deal, the newspaper said.

However in a statement to TTG, the company said: “We hear this kind of speculation about our airlines from time to time and as usual we do not comment on these rumours. We are very pleased with the development of our airlines and the integration our four airlines have achieved so far.

“Of course we are always open for opportunities which might include partnering. Our Group Airlines have contributed more than 100m GBP of synergies to our overall cost savings and they are working closer together than ever. On the other hand we have invested in the refurbishment of the cabins of our long-haul fleet and we have added long-haul aircraft to our fleet in Germany and UK. This shows that we see our airlines as an important part of our business and a support of our profitable growth strategy.”

Four separate fleets of Thomas Cook’s airline have so far been combined into one, which has generated savings of around £100 million. The company has also ordered 25 new Airbus A321s to replace its older planes and is spending £100 million on revamping its interiors.