Britons booking flights to property in France or other destinations around the world may be wise to use their credit card for the purchase.

While interest may accrue on the expenditure if it is not paid off promptly, the Consumer Credit Act includes protection for purchases made using credit cards, the Civil Aviation Authority explains.

A spokesman for the organisation points out that standalone flights – as opposed to package holidays – do not come under the protection of the Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing scheme.

Should the airline go bust, passengers may be left facing paying for a second ticket in order to reach property in France or the relevant destination.

But with a credit card, large purchases are protected and it is up to the lender to refund the money if something prevents the transaction from being honoured.

If the balance is paid off before the end of the month, no interest should be incurred either, meaning no overall increase in the amount paid by the passenger.

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