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10 Nov 2022 | 01:47 PM UTC

Europe: Environmental activists protesting at airports in the region Nov. 10

Environmental activists protesting at airports in Germany, UK, Nov. 10. Further protests at airports across Europe likely in coming days.

Informational

Event

Environmental activists led by the Extinction Rebellion campaign are protesting at European airports, as of Nov. 10. Demonstrations are ongoing at Berlin Schonefeld (SXF) in Germany, and at Farnborough (FAB) and Luton (LTN) in the UK. The protesters are targeting private jet facilities and demanding that governments take action to tax private jet travel.

In recent days, protestors blocked access routes and runways at Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) in the Netherlands and Spain's Ibiza (IBZ) airports. Protests at other airports are highly likely in the coming days; organizers are planning an ongoing campaign against private jet travel. They have not released specific details, however, based on previous demonstrations by these groups, they will likely involve activities intended to disrupt flight operations at impacted airports.

Additional police will deploy to monitor the protests. The actions themselves and related security measures will likely result in disruptions at impacted airports and surrounding areas. Increased security measures could result in lengthier security procedures and passenger processing times at airports. Disruptions to flight schedules, including delays and cancellations, cannot be ruled out. The protests are likely to be peaceful as organizers advocate for non-violent civil disobedience; however, authorities could resort to forceful methods to disperse any disruptive actions.

Advice

Reconfirm flights before air travel; do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Check public transport schedules and traffic conditions for disruptions before beginning journeys; allow additional time for travel and make alternative arrangements if necessary. Arrive early at airports to allow additional time to clear airport security and passenger checks. Avoid all protests if possible, do not attempt to pass through any roadblocks. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.