Climate activist groups launched coordinated protests at airports across Europe, causing flight disruptions and arrests as they demand an end to fossil fuel use.
At a glance:
- Just Stop Oil protesters arrested near Heathrow Airport in London
- Frankfurt Airport in Germany temporarily suspended operations due to runway blockade
- Similar actions occurred at airports in Norway, Finland, Spain, and Switzerland
- Activists demand global agreement to phase out fossil fuels by 2030
European Airports Face Disruption
Climate activists targeted multiple European airports on July 24, as part of a coordinated campaign to protest fossil fuel use and disrupt air travel. The actions, organized by groups including Just Stop Oil and Letzte Generation, led to flight cancellations, arrests, and temporary airport closures across the continent.
Heathrow Airport Arrests
In London, Metropolitan Police arrested ten Just Stop Oil protesters near Heathrow Airport. Chief Superintendent Ian Howells reported that officers recovered cutting gear and glue during the operation. The activists allegedly planned to breach the airport’s perimeter fence, which could have led to the suspension of flight operations.
Frankfurt Airport Shutdown
Germany’s Frankfurt Airport, a major international hub, was forced to temporarily suspend arrivals and departures after members of Letzte Generation cut through the perimeter fence and glued themselves to runways. Airport officials reported that approximately 140 flights were canceled out of 1,400 planned for the day.
Wider European Actions
Activists associated with various climate groups carried out similar protests at airports in Norway, Finland, Spain, and Switzerland. These actions included blocking security gates, accessing taxiways, and obstructing roads around airports. The coordinated nature of the protests suggests a broader strategy to target the aviation industry across Europe.