ABTA & FTO Complete Merger

ABTA and the FTO have officially merged today, creating a ‘powerful and authoritative voice’ for the travel industry. It is claimed that the experience and knowledge of the FTO in operational issues would complement ABTA’s role in financial protection and consumer standards.

Mark Tanzer, chief executive of ABTA said: “Together ABTA and the FTO represent a formidable voice for the industry which will considerably strengthen our position when dealing with the government and European Union…our complementary areas of expertise will also bring considerable benefits to both sets of members and I look forward to working with Andy Cooper and the expert staff of the FTO.”

FTO director-general, Andy Cooper added: "This will see the strength of the FTO in areas such as its destination expertise on issues including health and safety, responsible tourism and crisis management, come together with Abta’s strong focus on wider industry issues.”

ABTA, which was formed in 1950 by 22 leading travel companies, represents over 5,500 travel agencies throughout the British Isles, whilst the FTO (Federation of Tour Operators) work to preserve the long term future of the air inclusive holiday.