UK budget carrierEasyJethas opted to obtain an air operator's certificate and operating licence fromAustrianregulators in order to protect its European route rights.

Buy air tickets ONLINE

The carrier is to establish a new division – designatedEasyJetEurope – which will have its headquarters in Vienna.

Ukraine Aviation Portal

EasyJetsays this will enable it to continue operating its European route network regardless of the UK's future relationship with the European Union.

It has applied to theAustrianministry of transport and Austro Control for the relevant permits.

"The accreditation process is now well-advanced andEasyJethopes to receive the AOC and licence in the near future," it says.

EasyJetadds that the staff and aircraft which will operate for the new division are "already employed and based" in non-UK member countries of the European Union.