Climate activists disrupt Cologne Airport in 'Oil Kills' protest

Cologne Bonn Airport reported on the morning of 24th July that "unauthorised persons" had gained access to the airport, leading to the suspension of all flight operations and police intervention. Activists from Letzte Generation (the German faction of the Last Generation) glued themselves to the runway in connection with the global action planned for that day under the slogan "Oil Kills."

Many incoming flights were diverted to nearby airports in Düsseldorf, Hahn, Nuremberg, and Hannover. Dozens of flights leaving Cologne Airport were delayed or cancelled. Letzte Generation posted pictures of their members with their hands glued to the runway on X. Shortly after, activists reported that three of the five protesting individuals had been removed by the police.

German activists wrote on X: "As part of the international 'Oil Kills' campaign, we call for the signing of a fossil fuel treaty in more than 10 countries. This would commit our government to international negotiations to finalise an international treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030."

Last Generation stated that "similar peaceful, civil protests at airports" were planned for 24th July across Europe and North America. In Finland, protesters were photographed blocking security gates at Helsinki Vantaa Airport. In Norway, three activists breached the fence at the main Gardermoen Airport in Oslo.

Activists explained why they targeted airports for the "Oil Kills" campaign. On their X profile, Letze Generation wrote: "Airports are where it all becomes clear: What used to be normal is now something we can no longer afford. [...] Oil, gas, and coal threaten our existence."