Extinction Rebellion reveal plans to shut down London City Airport on Thursday for up to three days

Luke O'Reilly8 October 2019

Extinction Rebellion has revealed plans to shut down London City Airport this week for up to three days.

The climate activists plan to begin the shutdown at 9am on Thursday and intend to block security by occupying the departure and arrival lounge.

If that fails the group says it will occupy the DLR station and the road outside the terminal.

Extinction Rebellion London Protests: October 2019 - In pictures

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Once protesters have started their occupation they will construct a "13th site" where they will hold the airport and keep it closed for three days.

A sign up form for the airport occupation on the Extinction Rebellion website has a box asking applicants "Would you seriously consider potentially imprisonable actions?", with an option to tick "Yes" or "No".

The group also asks that those attending buy a one ticket from the airport that morning, in case police lines are in place to check ticket holders.

One of the group's co-founders, Roger Hallam, 53, appeared in Uxbridge Magistrate's court on September 16 of this year charged with attempting to cause disruption at Heathrow airport using a drone.

A spokesperson for London City Airport sought to reassure travellers that the airport was aware of the group's plans.

He said: “We are aware of Extinction Rebellion’s threat of protest at London City Airport and are working with the Metropolitan Police to ensure the safety and security of our passengers, as well as minimising any disruption to their journeys.

“We urge protesters to think twice about preventing hardworking people from travelling, be that families going on holiday from their local airport, tourists visiting London, or small businesses that rely on convenient connections.

“The climate change challenge is a matter for everyone, and we are committed to playing our part in achieving realistic plans to rapidly decarbonise. London City Airport has already reduced emissions by 30% over five years and we are committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, as well as working with partners on initiatives that will significantly reduce overall emissions related to aviation.”

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