First Choice & TUI customers see holidays cancelled at last minute – because they had Thomas Cook flights
FIRST Choice customers were devastated to learn they were also among those affected by the Thomas Cook collapse.
The holiday provider, along with its owners Tui, was forced to cancel a number of bookings up until the end of October as the package breaks were sold with Thomas Cook flights.
In a statement to Sun Online Travel, a spokesperson for the company said: "We’ve unfortunately had to cancel TUI and First Choice bookings featuring Thomas Cook flights for any customers due to travel before 31st October.
"Customers can call us on 0800 009 3833 or 0203 636 1994 to discuss their upcoming holiday booking."
They added: "For customers currently on holiday and due to fly home on a Thomas Cook flight, our teams in resort will be in touch to update you as more information becomes available.
"We would advise customers continue to enjoy their holidays and visit / for further updates."
The Atol-protected travel firm said it was working with the CAA to "assist affected customers and help them to find alternative holidays or organise cancellations and full refunds."
A-TOLD YA Atol protected holidays – what does it mean and why do you need it?
Scores of Brits were left devastated by the news while some were left in the dark about whether or not their holidays are actually cancelled.
Gav Peterson said: "@FirstChoiceUK been told my package holiday I booked with you for 2 weeks time is cancelled because you were using Thomas cook flights.
"You’re totally washing your hands of this- I’m a regular traveller with you and you aren’t even trying to get me on another flight - disgrace";
Erin Berry tweeted: "@FirstChoiceUK I know you're busy but my DM's have not been answered all day.
"As my original holiday was cancelled as the flights were with Thomas Cook I have booked another which will be on Thursday - the flights are with Easyjet to Spain, when can I check in for this please?"
Gita tweeted: "Hi, Rosie, When can we expect any updates? I DM you 3 hours ago. I want a confirmation that the holiday actually is cancelled.
"People just want to know what is going on. You made a public statement but I have not received any emails regarding my booking."
Another said: "@FirstChoiceUK please can someone reply. Your app seems to think we’ve gone on holiday despite our flights being cancelled?"
As Tui and First Choice are both ATOL-protected, Brits will be fully refunded for their holidays that included Thomas Cook flights.
Some travel firms have been accused of "cashing in" on the Thomas Cook collapse which has left 150,000 Brits stranded abroad and 21,000 people without jobs.
Jet2 and Virgin have both seen holiday prices soar in cost, due to an increase in demand.
Questions and answers
Q: I am still on holiday. Can I carry on and how do I get home?
A: Under the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL scheme all package hol customers can carry on and will be flown home as close to their original date as possible. See or call 0300 303 2800 (UK and Ireland) or +44 1753 330 330 (when abroad).
Q: What if my hotel wants cash?
A: Refuse. Hotels need to contact ATOL themselves. If you do have to pay, keep all receipts and you will be reimbursed under ATOL. You can also claim for expenses.
Q: What if I only bought flights?
A: Normally you do not get ATOL protection but the CAA says everyone will be brought home.
Q: I’ve booked but haven’t travelled yet. What happens to my holiday?
A: You are also covered and will get a refund, but it will take time.
Q: My booked hol does not include a flight. Am I still covered?
A: Not by ATOL. Advice on what to do at
Most read in travel
One couple have had their £80,000 Cyprus wedding ruined after booking their flights and hotel with Thomas Cook.
Laura Thorne and her fiance Lee Grant admitted they would have to delay their wedding despite planning it for two years.
Another Thomas Cook customer faced being without life saving medicine if she cannot get home from Morocco in time.
Get extra savings with The Sun Vouchers including discounts and voucher codes for TUI and many more holiday providers.