EasyJet applies for operator's certificate in Austria in post-Brexit plan
EasyJet has applied for a new air operator's certificate (AOC) in Austria to allow it to continue flying in the European Union after Brexit.
The carrier said the accreditation process is "well advanced" and it hopes to receive the AOC "in the near future".
It will allow the company to continue to operate flights across Europe and domestically within Europe after the UK withdraws from the EU.
EasyJet, which currently has airlines based in the UK and Switzerland, will establish a third, easyJet Europe, headquartered in Austria.
A spokeswoman said "nothing will change" from the perspective of passengers, and all the people and planes that will fly for easyJet Europe are already employed and based in the EU27 countries.
The single market for aviation, created in the 1990s, means there are no commercial restrictions for airlines flying within the EU.
UK ministers say maintaining "liberal access" to European aviation markets will be a "top priority" during Brexit negotiations.
EasyJet previously insisted it would not reveal the location of its new AOC until the application was granted, but it made the announcement after it became clear it would emerge as the approval process requires updating its safety systems and processes.
The company is forking out £10 million for the AOC.
