Germany proposes jail sentences for airport runway protests

By Cuneyt Karadag

BERLIN (AA) - In a move to curb disruptive protests, the German government has proposed imposing jail sentences on individuals who enter airport runways without permission.

According to the new proposal approved by the Cabinet, those found guilty of unauthorized entry or attempting to enter runways can face up to two years in prison or hefty fines.

The proposed legislation is even stricter for certain offenses. If an unauthorized entry is carried out with intent, involves carrying weapons or poisonous substances, or is linked to the facilitation of another crime, offenders could face a prison sentence of up to five years.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser cited recent incidents where climate activists glued their hands to runways. "Anyone who enters airport facilities without permission, glues their hands to taxiways, and thus significantly disrupts air traffic not only risks their own life but also the lives of others," Faeser said.

Transport Minister Volker Wissing emphasized the need to tighten the law to deter such protests and prevent disruptions, especially during the busy travel season.

The proposal will now be presented to Bundestag, the federal parliament, for approval before it can become law.

The urgency of the legislation comes in the wake of unauthorized protests by climate activists on the runways of Munich and Berlin-Brandenburg airports, which led to numerous flight cancellations.