In Frankfurt, Germany, a total of 270 flights were canceled at the busiest airport due to environmental activists disrupting air travel to raise awareness about climate change. The activists breached security fences early in the morning, causing flights to be halted for safety reasons. By 7:50 a.m., the runways were back in operation. Airport operator Fraport reported 270 flights canceled out of 1,400 scheduled for the day. Seven people damaged the perimeter fence and attached themselves to the tarmac, leading to their detention.
Environmental groups across Europe are targeting airports this summer to highlight the connection between fossil fuels, air travel, and climate change. They urge governments to end the extraction and burning of fossil fuels by 2030 in order to curb the climate crisis. Despite global efforts to reduce fossil fuel use, investments in planet-warming oil and gas are expected to increase. Flying is known as a carbon-intensive activity, yet the aviation industry is projected to continue growing in the coming years.
In addition to Frankfurt, climate activists staged disruptions in airports in Finland, Norway, Switzerland, Spain, and London. Protesters in Helsinki, Oslo, and London caused minor disruptions, with activists entering runways or blocking check-in areas. The protests aim to bring attention to the urgent need for climate action and the link between aviation and environmental impact. German legislation has been approved to impose stricter penalties on individuals who intrude on airport areas, endangering civil aviation. This includes potential prison sentences for intentional intrusions on airside areas.
