Germany Tightens Airport Security Laws Following Climate Activist Disruptions

Germany’s Cabinet has approved new legislation to impose tougher penalties on individuals who breach airport perimeters, in response to disruptive incidents, particularly by climate activists. The proposed bill aims to increase security and safety by introducing harsher punishments for such intrusions.

Under the new bill, intentional intrusions into “airside” areas of airports, such as taxiways or runways, that endanger civil aviation or facilitate someone else’s intrusion, could result in up to two years in prison.

Previously, such actions could only incur fines. Additionally, carrying banned objects like weapons or poisonous substances, or intruding to commit or cover up another offense, could lead to sentences of up to five years.

The legislation comes after recent protests by climate activists that disrupted airport operations and highlighted the need for stricter penalties. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the dangers posed by these intrusions, noting the risk to the lives of the intruders and others, potential medical emergencies, and significant disruption to travelers and economic activities.

Faeser also stressed the importance of airport operators enhancing their security measures to prevent such incidents. The government’s move aims to address the repeated disruptions and ensure the safety and smooth functioning of airport operations in Germany.