In a bold move aimed at pressuring governments to take decisive action against climate change, a group of climate activists known as Last Generation disrupted operations at four major German airports on Wednesday morning. The activists, who glued themselves to the tarmac, caused temporary flight suspensions as part of their “relentless” campaign against fossil fuels.
The protests, which began around 5 am, took place at Berlin, Cologne-Bonn, Nuremberg, and Stuttgart airports. Eight activists participated in the actions, demanding that the German government negotiate and sign an international agreement to phase out the use of oil, gas, and coal by 2030.
“What is at stake right now are billions of human lives. Climate collapse is already a reality for many people,” stated one of the activists in a video message recorded on the runway. “We still have the privilege of being able to do something about it here.”
The actions sparked immediate responses. At Cologne-Bonn airport, two activists were reported to have attached themselves to the asphalt, leading to flight suspensions. German news agency dpa reported that a hole was discovered in an airport fence, indicating a possible breach in security. Flights were also halted for about an hour at Nuremberg Airport. At Berlin Airport, two activists who glued themselves to the ground were removed and detained by authorities.
This latest disruption follows a series of similar protests by Last Generation this summer. The group previously targeted Cologne-Bonn Airport, Germany’s busiest, causing significant disruptions to passenger flights. Earlier this month, they staged an overnight protest at Leipzig/Halle Airport, a major air freight hub, which resulted in a three-hour halt to cargo flights.
The protests have drawn strong condemnation from German officials. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser took to social media, now known as X, to express her disapproval, labeling the actions “criminal, dangerous, and stupid.” She pointed out that the protesters are “not just risking their own lives but also endangering others.” Faeser highlighted the recently approved legislation by the German Cabinet, which aims to impose tougher penalties on individuals who breach airport perimeters. The bill, awaiting approval by lawmakers, proposes punishment ranging up to a two-year prison sentence for those who intentionally intrude on airside areas like taxiways or runways, endangering civil aviation or enabling others to do so. Currently, such intrusions only result in fines.
The Last Generation group’s actions highlight the increasing frustration and urgency surrounding the climate crisis. They believe that drastic measures are necessary to force governments to act more swiftly and decisively in addressing the issue. However, the disruptive nature of their protests raises concerns about safety and security, prompting authorities to consider harsher penalties for such actions in the future.
