ABTA overhauls arbitration scheme

ABTA is revamping its arbitration scheme from next week and claims members could save up to £168 per case.

It has partnered with a new arbitration handler CEDR (Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution) and claims the scheme will be quicker and more cost effective for consumers.

Charles Fachiri, ABTA consumer affairs manager, said: "This is the most significant overhaul of the ABTA Arbitration scheme in its 40-year history.

"Not only will we be able to manage cases faster but CEDR is also able to offer us substantial costs savings which we have been able to pass on to members."

Gregory Hunt, director of CEDR Solve, said: "We have worked hard to improve the scheme, streamlining administration and cutting the cost of dispute resolution to parties.

"Whilst we are traditionally better known for our mediation services, this scheme demonstrates the breadth of services we offer in dispute resolution and we are looking forward to working with ABTA, its members and their customers for many years to come."

In order to improve transparency, for the first time ABTA is also publishing a list and biographies of the arbitrators who will be making decisions on cases.

Furthermore, customers will be able to apply for arbitration up to 18 months after returning from their holiday up from the previous limit of 12 months.

With permission from Travelmole