In recent years, climate activists have attracted attention worldwide by using spectacular actions to highlight the urgency of climate protection. Now, in an internal memo reported by RTL, Lufthansa is warning of a possible new escalation of these protests: activists of the "last generation" could not only stick themselves to runways, but also cause disruption on board aircraft. This development could have serious consequences for the safety of air traffic.

Lufthansa has warned its employees about a new type of protest action. According to information from RTL.de, the "Last Generation" could buy regular flight tickets to board aircraft and disrupt or interrupt operations. The security department of Lufthansa, which also includes Eurowings, fears that these activists will no longer just stick to runways, but could also carry out actions directly on the aircraft. This is stated in an internal warning letter.

Safety concerns and legal consequences

Lufthansa spokesman Michael Lamberty was cautious in his comments to RTL.de, as it is a sensitive security issue. But the potential risks are significant. Interfering with air traffic could lead to dangerous situations, as lawyer Henning Linnenberg from the Mutschke law firm explains. If such actions lead to a safety impairment or a near-accident, the activists face prison sentences of between six months and ten years. Damage to property by smearing aircraft could also have criminal consequences, depending on how easily the paint can be removed. Fines or prison sentences of up to two years are threatened here.

Lufthansa's warning comes shortly after a series of actions by the "Last Generation" during the 2024 summer holidays. On July 23, five activists blocked the taxiway at Cologne/Bonn Airport, causing hours of delays and flight cancellations. A day later, they entered the runway at Frankfurt Airport, forcing several landing planes to take off or take evasive action. Cargo flight operations in Leipzig/Halle were also recently blocked for several hours. These actions have shown that the activists are capable of causing significant disruption.

The "Last Generation" is calling for an end to fossil fuels by 2030. With their actions, the activists want to draw attention to the urgency of this demand. They argue that radical measures are necessary to stop climate change and secure a future worth living. Their protests, which are often spectacular and high-profile, aim to wake up political decision-makers and the general public.

Airports’ reactions and measures

Airports are increasingly concerned about the actions of the "Last Generation". Leipzig/Halle Airport has announced that it is considering legal action against the activists. At Hamburg Airport, several suspicious people were recently discovered with extensive equipment that suggested a planned blockade action. These incidents show that security measures at airports must be strengthened to prevent such disruptions.