Christmas holiday getaways for thousands of British customers have been thrown into confusion by the collapse of Scotland's largest tour operator, Flyglobespan.

Dave Vincent

Christmas getaway flights chaos looms

Christmas holiday getaways for thousands of British customers have been thrown into confusion by the collapse of Scotland's largest tour operator, Flyglobespan.

Up to 5,000 holidaymakers are believed to be stranded abroad and thousands more are set to miss out on their Christmas holiday bookings.

Flights have been grounded and bookings in the run-up to Christmas are not likely be honoured with the company in voluntary administration.

Although most of their flights are from Scottish airports, such as Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh, rather than England is another flow for the airline and holiday industry.

Locally customers are more concerned by the proposed British Airways cabin crew strike.

Fred Olsen Travel has seven branches in the region, including Ipswich and Colchester.

Group retail manager Louse Tweed said: “We have a few customers who are concerned about the British Airways threat and we talking to some about changing their arrangements.

“The possibility of a strike has been talked about for some time and many customers have known that when making bookings, and taken it into account.

“At times like this it shows the importance of booking through an agent, as we really can help customers.

“It is sad to see another airline going into administration, but most of effect of this new problem will be in Scotland.”

Advice for passengers grounded by airline collapse

Following the collapse of, Rochelle Turner from Which? Holiday said:

“This has been a disastrous week for anyone planning to fly this Christmas.

“With yet another airline collapsing leaving thousands of Brits stranded either overseas or with future flights that they cannot take, it's really important that people take steps to ensure they are protected should a similar incident occur in the future.

“If you pay for your flight with a credit card, Visa debit card or book it as part of a package holiday then you shouldn't have any problems getting your money back. The same applies for people who book through an ATOL bonded travel agent or operator. You may even be covered by your travel insurance as some policies cover scheduled flights.

“Sadly, if these don't apply to you there's little hope of you seeing your money again so bear this in mind when you book your next flight or renew your travel policy.”