I was due to fly with Silverjet soon. Will I get a refund on the cost of my ticket?

Your ability to get a refund depends on whether you paid by debit or credit card, with the airline or through a travel agent.

I got my ticket through a travel website

You are protected as travel agents have an ATOL licence, which means customers should be able to get a full refund through the scheme.

I bought my tickets directly from Silverjet

If you booked directly with the airline on your credit card, under the Consumer Credit Act your card provider is expected to return the money to you, assuming your tickets cost more than £100. Unusually, Silverjet also had an ATOL licence, which means that if you booked flights and transfers jointly through the airline, or any kind of package including flights, you are also entitled to a full refund through the scheme.

What about flights bought on a debit card from the airline?

As it is not a legal requirement for airlines to offer financial protection to customers in the event of bankruptcy, anyone who paid for tickets by debit card will not get a refund.

I've got annual travel insurance. Can I get a refund through my insurer?

It is unlikely, but some pricier policies may cover the failure of airlines, so it is worth checking the small print.

Further help:

Silverjet: www.flysilverjet.com

Civil Aviation Authority

Consumer Direct: 08454 04 05 06

Times Recommends

• Gazprom brands Ukraine 'a barbarian' in gas row
• Services sector raises fears over UK jobless
• Retailers surge as profits survive sales plunge