A protest is currently underway at Manchester Airport involving campaigners against climate change. The protestors have formed a seal across the entrance to Terminal 3 – chosen as it primarily supports domestic flights - but, according to an airport spokesman, have not progressed as far as security. He added: "At the moment passengers cannot get through to security, but we do have alternative ways of getting passengers through. It is a public area of the airport. They have not breached security. The police are on site and they are dealing with it."

Additionally, the spokesman confirmed that the protestors had not caused any flights to be delayed.

The situation was further highlighted by another spokesman, from Greater Manchester Police. In his words:

“Just after 7.30am today police were called to Terminal 3 at Manchester Airport following reports of a protest. Officers arrived at the entrance to the departures lounge, where up to 12 protesters were preventing passengers from getting through.

"Police are currently working with airport staff to arrange alternative ways for passengers to get into the departure lounge, and continue to monitor the situation."

The protestors belong to the Plane Stupid group – which opposes air travel. As detailed by a group representative: "Domestic flights are unnecessary. There is no real benefit to anyone. These types of flights are unsustainable."

The anti-travel organisation additionally highlighted how projected air travel growth contravened the government’s police on climate change.

According to a spokesman from the Department of Transport, the government viewed climate change issues “very seriously”.

Official data highlights how, in the period between 1973 and 2003, UK airports have witnessed a five-fold increase in passenger numbers.

Source – Airport International’s Regional Correspondent

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