Emirates has withdrawn its application to operate flights from Dubai to Mexico with a stop in Barcelona, saying a three times a week service would not be commercially viable.

The carrier had hoped to operate a daily service, but today confirmed that Mexican authorities have blocked the move.

“Emirates has extended full flexibility in proposing an operating schedule that utilises low demand slots at Mexico City International Airport,” a spokesperson said.

“However, despite previous assurances that slots were not an issue at the flight timings requested, the Mexican authorities have informed us that we will not be able to operate daily services, but only three flights a week.

“Unfortunately, this is not commercially viable for us given the resource investment required for such a long distance operation, not to mention the negative impact on connectivity and convenience for our customers.”

The airline said the decision was “hugely disappointing” as it has been working for three years to bring the service to fruition.

The spokesperson added: “We would like to thank the Spanish authorities for their full and generous support in granting all necessary operating rights for the route, which we firmly believe would have benefited consumers and businesses in Spain, Mexico, and the UAE.

“We remain positive about the potential of serving Mexico in the future when the conditions enable us to do so.”

Emirates secured approvals from Spanish authorities in March to operate the fifth freedom route. This led to SkyTeam carrier Aeromexico cancelling plans for its own Mexico City - Barcelona service, which was due to launch in November 2018.

At about 14,320 km in distance, Emirates would be able to operate Dubai to Mexico City non-stop. However, the high altitude of Mexico City means the reverse leg would not be possible without a stop.

Barcelona is the largest unserved city in Europe from Mexico City, according to data from Sabre Market Intelligence. In the 12 months to the end of June 2018, the O&D market size was 45,475.