AN airline accused Oxford Airport of putting trucks in front of its plane to stop it taking off over a dispute about its future.

Minoan Air told passengers the airport blocked the plane, which never made it to its Dublin destination, because it was set to pull its services.

The airport would not comment on the trucks but said a “contractual dispute” led to the cancellation of the flight.

It was due to leave at 4.30pm on Wednesday but the 12 passengers, who criticised the “debacle”, were turned away.

Minoan was not available for comment but an email to passengers said the airport “refused” to check in passengers or handle the departure.

Its email said: “Photos show trucks that were put by the airport in front of the aircraft in order to block our flight.

“We believe that this is a reaction to our decision to terminate our schedule on August 4.”

The firm said it was “shocked and surprised” by the “unethical” actions, adding: “They never told you the real reason for the cancellation.”

An airport statement said: “The airport management team worked with Minoan Air this week to resolve a contractual dispute which resulted in the cancellation of one rotation to Dublin on Wednesday.

“The dispute was resolved and the Minoan flights commenced as normal again this morning and will continue to operate until August 4.”

It said it was “disappointed” by Greece-based Minoan’s decision to pull the daily flights to Dublin and Edinburgh “which had showed so much promise”.

Minoan’s website said it pulled the flights due to clashes “on specific terms of co-operation deemed imperative for the viability of our flights”.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Oxford Tony Brett was among passengers due to catch the Dublin flight.

He said: “The Minoan pilot, baggage handler and cabin crew told us the flight wasn’t cancelled and it was the airport’s fault.

“It is very poor customer service when two companies argue in front of the public.”

Summertown’s Anthony Burden said partner Pauline Bonfield had been due to fly.

Branding it a “debacle” he said: “They are both as bad as each other.”

The airport is owned by billionaire investment tycoons David and Simon Reuben.

They were asked to comment but had not done so as the Oxford Mail went to press.