Locations Affected: Europe
What:
Protests by climate activists at various airports in Europe, including Cologne-Bonn Airport in Germany and Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom, have led to disruptions in air traffic.
Why:
Protesters under the banner of ‘Oil Kills’ are demanding that countries phase out fossil fuels by 2030. ‘Oil Kills’ is a rebranded alliance comprising climate groups such as Extinction Rebellion, Just Stop Oil, and Last Generation.
So What:
- Germany: On 24th July, protesters from the group Last Generation glued themselves to the tarmac at Cologne-Bonn Airport, causing a three-hour halt to flights. As a result, 31 flights were canceled, and six were diverted. On 25th July, flights were temporarily suspended at Frankfurt Airport due to a demonstration near the runways. Passengers have been advised to check their flight status before traveling, as disruptions may continue.
- Austria: On 24th July, activists spilled orange paint in the terminal at Vienna Airport and delayed a flight by refusing to sit down during takeoff.
- Switzerland: Eleven protesters blocked roads leading to Zurich and Geneva airports on 24th July.
- Finland: Nine activists from Extinction Rebellion Finland blocked security gates at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, causing passenger disruptions on 24th July.
- Norway: Three activists from Folk Mot Fossilmakta (People Against Fossil Power) breached the perimeter fence of Gardermoen Airport in Oslo on 24th July. The protesters were later detained.
- Spain: On 24th July, five people from Vegetal Future were intercepted by police before they could glue themselves to the tarmac near the runway.
- London: On the same day, seven supporters of Just Stop Oil (JSO) were arrested on the perimeter road outside Heathrow Airport.
Outlook:
Further global actions at airports are scheduled for 27th July. On 22nd July, Just Stop Oil announced plans to engage in a non-cooperation movement at airports across the United Kingdom in the coming months. In response, countries like the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Germany have tightened rules against unauthorized airport entry to prevent disruptions. Heightened security measures can be expected around airports, and the possibility of protest actions before 27th July cannot be ruled out. Organizations are advised to stay updated on the situation and recheck flight schedules before traveling.
