Skiers warned of potential travel firm failures

Skiers will need to make sure they have adequate winter sports travel insurance as some tour operators that are already struggling to survive might not see it through to the end of the season, according to a new study.

Small to medium-size travel companies with their own chalets, hotels or apartments to fill are likely to be the most vulnerable if the ski market does not pick up.

Skiers should make sure they buy winter sports insurance as soon as they book their holiday and check that it provides cover against tour operator insolvency. Those booking flights and accommodation separately should make sure they take out Scheduled Airline Failure insurance in addition to travel insurance to protect against an airline collapse.

Although the popular February half-term week has virtually sold out, there are still lots of holidays left on the shelf for the rest of season, including the two-week Easter period.

Industry advisors Pricewaterhousecooopers said some travel firms risked making a loss, leaving them unable to renew their Air Travel Organisers licence, which would prevent them from operating.

Last year saw the collapse of several ski operators, including posh chalet operator Descent International, a favourite with the Duke of York, and Ski All America.

This winter, holiday bookings including ski trips are expected to be 20 per cent down on last year, as consumers focus on paying off debt, said PwC, which will make it even harder for tour operators to make money.

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