EasyJet will convert 3,000 flight attendant licenses and aircraft spare parts into its Austrian air operator’s certificate (AOC) as the UK-based LCC prepares for a no-deal Brexit, easyJet CEO Johan Lundgren told ATW on the sidelines of the Airlines 4 Europe (A4E) summit in Brussels.
EasyJet has already transferred 1,400 UK pilot licenses into Austrian ones.
Lundgren said 3,000 cabin crew licenses will also be transferred to Austria, “complete in line with our preparations.”
In addition, he said the carrier must ensure its aircraft spare parts will shift into that AOC as well, as the UK airline does not want to rely on spare parts that may not be able to be used after Brexit, when the UK leaves the European UnionMarch 29.
EasyJet’s Brexit preparations also include transferring 130 of its UK-registered Airbus A319s/A320s to its easyJet Europe unit in Vienna.
“We are transferring three aircraft per week now [to Austria]. Actually, we are Europe’s fastest-growing airline and the biggest airline in Austria right now,” Lundgren said, adding that 130 aircraft should already be transferred to easyJet Europe.
He described the relationship with Austro Control [Austrian Aviation Authority] as very constructive and supportive. “We are very confident by that setup,” he said. “We are optimistic we will be able to continue flying without any interruption.”
EasyJet has invested about £10 million ($13.2 million) in Brexit preparations.