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Travel questions

Will Thomas Cook’s financial troubles affect my flight in 10 months?

Got a question? Our expert, Simon Calder, can help

Friday 13 September 2019 23:58 BST
Comments
It is highly likely the airline will still be operating once the pensions issue is resolved
It is highly likely the airline will still be operating once the pensions issue is resolved

Q I recently booked flights for July 2020 with Thomas Cook Airlines, direct on a debit card, and the next day learned of their financial troubles. I’m concerned this Fosun takeover might not go ahead due to the pension scheme issue, but how likely do you think it is that Thomas Cook Airlines might be affected? I can’t cancel or change the flights, and I didn’t use a credit card. I’m usually comforted by the protection offered by the travel industry but on this occasion seem to have been left exposed.

Jon S

A Thomas Cook, the travel firm with arguably the strongest name in the industry, has been struggling financially. Last month its 21,000 employees, and millions of travellers with forward bookings, were relieved to learn that the Chinese firm Fosun will inject £450m, with Thomas Cook’s creditors also pumping in £450m. But the trustees of the pension fund have asked for some assurances from the company before backing the plan. I can understand your concern about a flight due to depart 10 months from now. But I expect it will operate normally.

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