HOLIDAYMAKERS currently abroad who booked package holidays through the XL Leisure Group companies should be able to continue their holidays as normal, the company said today.

People who bought their break through XL subsidiaries including Really Great Holiday Company, Kosmar Villa Holidays, Freedom Flights and Aspire Holidays are protected under the Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL) scheme which safeguards holidaymakers against the collapse of companies.

These customers are being told to ring their travel company or the emergency hotline on +44 (0) 2891 856 547.

However, people abroad who directly booked flights only with XL Airlines through XL.com or XL call centres are not protected by ATOL. Return flights are being arranged for these customers but they will have to pay for the journey. Alternatively, unprotected customers can book their own flights home independently.

XL customers with bookings to fly out on holiday are being told not to go to the airport. They are advised to get in touch with their travel agents if they booked through a travel shop. If their agent is protected under the ATOL scheme customers should be able to claim compensation. Alternatively, people can ring an advice line on 0870 5900927.

Holidaymakers who are not protected by ATOL may be able to get their money back if they paid with a credit card or Visa debit card. Others may be able to claim on their travel insurance depending on the small print.

The companies which went into administration were XL Leisure Group, XL Airways UK, Excel Aviation, Explorer House, Aspire Holidays, Freedom Flights, Freedom Flights (Aviation), The Really Great Holiday Company, Medlife Hotels, Travel City Flights, Kosmar Villa Holidays.