- Climate activists protest at Leipzig/Halle airport
Several activists are demonstrating at Leipzig/Halle Airport for more climate protection. A part of the five-member group has reportedly stuck themselves to the ground in the southern area of the airport, according to a spokesperson for the federal police. A helicopter is currently searching the area for more activists.
There is no information yet on possible restrictions to passenger air traffic. According to the airport's website, the first flight is scheduled to depart on time at 5:25 AM, with the first arrival expected at 9:10 AM. However, the cargo flight operations have been suspended since around 00:30 AM. Leipzig/Halle Airport claims to be the fourth-largest hub for air cargo in Europe, handling around 1.4 million tons of cargo annually.
The group "Letzte Generation" has claimed responsibility for the action. According to their statements, climate activists entered the airport grounds around midnight, aiming to raise awareness against the increasing air traffic, the inadequate climate strategy of the airport, and the lack of a federal government plan for a swift exit from fossil energy carriers.
In a post on the X platform, the group states: "The night flight ban for cargo traffic has been suspended due to today's blockade." The post is accompanied by photos of activists on the tarmac, with at least one person's hand stuck to the ground. Their signs read: "Oil kills." According to the group "Oil Kills," a total of five activists stuck themselves to the tarmac.
Actions at several airports
Last week, climate protesters blocked air traffic at Frankfurt Airport and Cologne/Bonn Airport for a few hours each. There was also a peaceful protest action at Stuttgart Airport without any restrictions to air traffic. In response, Leipzig Airport announced that it would take security precautions. Security personnel have been sensitized and will act with increased vigilance, it was reported.
The activists' actions at the airport have led to the suspension of the night flight ban for cargo traffic. Due to the ongoing demonstration, there might be potential disruptions to the scheduled flight departures or arrivals at Leipzig/Halle Airport.
