EASYJET has started a legal battle with the Swiss government and Swissair after its bid to launch Geneva-Barcelona flights was turned down.
The Luton-based airline aimed to start services on Thursday, but has been refused a licence. An appeal has been lodged claiming the application was blocked due to Swissair objections, but under Swiss law, the national airline can enjoy protection from rival carriers.
As Switzerland is not part of the European Union it is not included in the open skies agreement. However, Switzerland has pledged to sign up in the future.