The association became travel's third "approved body" this summer after three years' work, the others being Abta and Abtot. Approved bodies are authorised by government under the Package Travel Regulations to provide protection.
Aito said the scheme, Aito Financial Protection Services Ltd (AFPS), was created in response to feedback from members, who sought more specialised protection designed for SMEs.
AFPS director Christina Brazier, who is also Aito's head of industry affairs, hailed the launch "an important step forward for Aito and its members".
"With AFPS, we have ensured Aito's SME specialist tour operators have access to a scheme that works for them - one that is not only tailored, robust and sustainable, but that has been created by a team which already knows them well.
"As an additional layer of support, we’re also working closely with selected bond providers to give members access to competitive bonding solutions."
Brazier said during its launch phase, AFPS would take "a measured approach" to enrolling new members to ensure standards.
"This is just the beginning for AFPS," she added. "As Aito grows its membership over the coming months, we’ll also be working closely with our trusted partners to expand the range of products and services that will support members well into the future.
"These are exciting times for both Aito and its members, both longstanding Aito members and those currently considering membership.”
AFPS offers cover for non-licensable packages, as well as single components if members wish, through bonds and shortfall insurance.
