Southall Travel Abandons Thousands Amid COVID-19 Chaos
Southall Travel, one of the UK’s top travel operators, has left thousands of customers stranded overseas with zero support. Shockingly, the company claims it has no obligation to help Brits get home, despite the spiralling COVID-19 crisis.
Company Blames ATOL and Pandemic for Walking Away
A Southall Travel spokesman boldly stated they weren’t even aware of the COVID-19 outbreak. The firm insists the Civil Aviation Authority’s ATOL scheme advised them they have no duty to assist with repatriation or honour existing contracts due to the pandemic.
Meanwhile, the firm’s India-based call centre is still hustling holiday flights and deals, trying to squeeze cash out of desperate customers. Stranded couples report being told, “It’s not our problem.”
Big Profits, No Help: Directors Named and Shamed
- Despite many flights being ATOL-protected, Southall Travel’s parent company, Onkar International, banked £14.8m profit from £283.3m in sales.
- Directors Mr Kuljit Rana, Mr Surinder Singh Takhar, Ms Donna Bahia, and Mr Kuljinder Singh Bahia refuse to help with flight transfers or refunds.
They blatantly ignore government advice that travel firms have a legal responsibility to their customers. These disgraceful directors have effectively thrown their customers to the dogs.
ATOL Urges Caution and Clear Advice for Travellers
An ATOL spokesman said:
The UK Civil Aviation Authority understands that the spread of Coronavirus is concerning for the industry and those with upcoming travel plans.
He advised travellers to regularly check government travel advice and review company terms before booking. Travel insurance is vital, but beware that many policies may not cover COVID-19 disruptions.
If you’re stuck abroad because flights are suspended, contact your airline or travel provider first for repatriation plans.
Bottom line: Southall Travel may have rinsed your cash, but it’s now down to you to sort your way home.
