Greenpeace security breach at Heathrow airport
Heathrow airport has suffered a major security breach today as four Greenpeace climate campaigners have climbed on top of a plane at the airport.
The four Greenpeace protestors waited until passengers had disembarked from the plane, then walked through double doors at Heathrow Terminal 1, crossed the tarmac and climbed stairs onto the fuselage of the plane. They then unveiled a banner with the words “Climate Emergency – No Third Runway”.
This worrying breach of security at Heathrow comes only two days before the government’s consultation on expanding Heathrow – including building a third runway at the airport – ends on Wednesday. Protestors are also meeting at Westminster to protest about expansion plans at Heathrow.
Flights at Heathrow appear not to have been disrupted by the Greenpeace protest. The plane they climbed onto was a short haul BA flight from Manchester to Heathrow.
Airport operator BAA has criticised the action by Greenpeace. "There is an important debate to be had regarding airport expansion, and BAA respects people's democratic right to protest lawfully. However direct action on the airfield is unlawful and irresponsible,” said a BAA spokesperson.
The Greenpeace protestors included 27 year old Anna Jones from Leeds, and 30 year old Sarah Shoraka from London, plus two male colleagues. However, not all Greenpeace supporters appear to support the protest.
“Why wouldn’t BA sue Greenpeace for their losses resulting from this action? Plain stupid,” writes Concerned on the Greenpeace website.
“Whilst being a supporter of most action taken under the banner of Greenpeace, this one strikes me as dumb. Climbing on a 757 at a major international airport? I’m surprised the protestors weren’t shot,” writes Pragmatic on the same website.
Written by: Nick Purdom
Save up to 60% and book your Heathrow Airport parking at an unbeatable price with Holiday Extras
Related News Articles
Clocks go back October | Clocks change Autumn 2011 - 26/10/2011
Pull the curtains, grab a blanket and get cosy, on Sunday October 30 2011 it's time to put your clocks back.Summer holiday bargains | Travellers wait to grab last minute deals - 15/08/2011
UK holiday-makers are holding out for last minute travel bargains this summer, and nabbing some great deals.Glasgow Airport Roadworks - 15/08/2011
Allow more time when travelling to and from Glasgow Airport. Roadworks are expected to cause delays until May 5th.
