What Is SFI and SAFI? Understanding the Protection You Offer

Giving Clients More Than Just a Holiday

In travel, selling the dream is only half the story — protecting it is just as important. As a travel consultant, you’re not just arranging flights and hotels; you’re safeguarding your client’s hard-earned money and peace of mind. That’s where SFI and SAFI travel protection come in. They’re not complicated industry jargon — they’re your silent guarantee that even if something goes wrong, your client’s investment is safe.



In the ever‑evolving world of travel, the confidence a client places in your business is invaluable. This is why understanding—and communicating—SFI and SAFI travel protection isn’t just technical—it’s essential. These protective measures ensure that clients remain safeguarded even in unexpected disruptions.

Defining SFI and SAFI

• SAFI – Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance
  This insurance steps in when a scheduled airline fails or enters administration. If an airline collapses before or during travel, SAFI covers the cost of the original ticket or arranges alternate travel—whether that’s returning home or continuing the journey at a similar standard.
• SFI – Supplier Failure Insurance
  SFI protects against the insolvency of non‑airline suppliers—think hotels, car hire companies, tours, and similar services. It reimburses prepaid expenses if these suppliers fail to deliver.

Why SFI and SAFI Matter for Travel Businesses

1. Enhanced Risk Management
   Integrating SFI and SAFI into your offering reduces exposure to financial risks that can arise from supplier or airline insolvency.
2. Boosted Consumer Confidence
   When clients are aware that their trip is insured even if a provider fails, their trust—and willingness to book—grows.
3. Regulatory and Legal Compliance
   Under the UK’s Package Travel Regulations, businesses must provide adequate financial protection—whether via insurance, bonding, or a trust account. Offering SFI and SAFI ensures compliance and shields you from legal and reputational damage.

How Independent Travel Consultants Deliver SFI and SAFI Travel Protection

At Independent Travel Consultants, client security comes standard, with all bookings covered by:

• Trust Account Model via PTS
  We operate under the Protected Trust Services (PTS) framework. This means client funds are ring-fenced in secure trust accounts, released only when services are rendered.
• Inclusive SFI and SAFI Coverage
  Unlike many others, we automatically include SFI and SAFI travel protection as part of the PTS package—removing guesswork, increasing trust, and complying with legal requirements.

Real-World Benefits at a Glance

These coverages offer tangible reassurance to both agents and clients.

Why We’re Different

Many travel companies use complicated add-on systems or charge extra for financial protection — sometimes without fully explaining the details. At The Independent Travel Consultants, our approach is simple: every client, every booking, every time is covered by SFI and SAFI travel protection at no extra cost.

We believe protection should be a standard, not a sales tactic. By making it part of our core service, we give our consultants a stronger selling point and our customers greater peace of mind.

Jamie Says:

“When a client books a holiday with you, they’re putting their trust in your hands. It’s not enough to just sell them a trip — you have to make sure their money is protected, no matter what. That’s why we’ve built SFI and SAFI into every booking. It’s not about ticking a legal box, it’s about doing the right thing for the people who choose to travel with us.”

How to Communicate This to Clients

• Simple language works best:
  “Your trip is protected—even if a supplier or airline fails, we’ve got you covered.”
• Use protection visuals:
  Display logos and phrases like “SFI and SAFI included” prominently in quotes, emails, or marketing materials.
• Include real-life examples:
  Briefly share success stories—e.g., “When a provider recently went under, their client was fully refunded with zero hassle.”

A Note to the Critics

Some say newcomers to the travel industry can’t compete with established names. We disagree. By joining The Independent Travel Consultants, you get access to the same professional-grade protections as long-standing agencies. With the right support, training, and tools — including SFI and SAFI travel protection — you can start strong and win client trust from day one.

Conclusion

When you offer SFI and SAFI travel protection backed by a PTS trust model, you’re not just complying with regulations—you’re offering clients real peace of mind. At Independent Travel Consultants, this commitment to protection isn't optional—it’s foundational.

If you want to build a travel business that combines dream holidays with rock-solid protection, join The Independent Travel Consultants. You’ll have the tools, training, and trust signals you need to succeed.