Climate activists from the group Just Stop Oil caused a stir at Stansted Airport in Essex, UK, by spray-painting private jets with orange paint. The activists mistakenly believed that pop star Taylor Swift’s private jet was among the targeted aircraft.
Key Takeaways
- Just Stop Oil activists spray-painted private jets at Stansted Airport.
- The activists mistakenly believed Taylor Swift’s jet was present.
- Two women were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and interference with national infrastructure.
- The incident caused a temporary suspension of runway operations.
The Incident
On a Thursday morning, two climate activists from Just Stop Oil broke into Stansted Airport, using angle grinders to cut through the airport fence. They then proceeded to spray two private jets with orange paint using fire extinguishers. The activists, Jennifer Kowalski and Cole Macdonald, were arrested shortly after 5:10 a.m. local time.
Misidentification of Taylor Swift’s Jet
The activists claimed that Taylor Swift’s private jet was parked at the airport, which turned out to be incorrect. A representative for Stansted Airport confirmed that Swift’s jet was not present during the incident. Despite this, the activists targeted the jets as part of their broader campaign against private jet usage and carbon emissions.
Legal Consequences
Jennifer Kowalski, 28, and Cole Macdonald, 22, were charged with criminal damage and interfering with national infrastructure. They pleaded not guilty to the charges and were denied bail. The cost of cleaning up the paint was estimated at £52,000, and the full extent of the damage to the fence and additional security measures is still being assessed.
Broader Context
Just Stop Oil is known for its high-profile protests against fossil fuel usage. The group has previously defaced famous artworks and landmarks, including Stonehenge. Their actions aim to draw attention to the urgent need for climate action. The activists’ focus on Taylor Swift’s jet was due to its high carbon emissions, although Swift’s representatives have stated that her jet is often loaned out to others and that she has purchased carbon credits to offset her emissions.
Impact on Flights
The incident caused a temporary suspension of runway operations at Stansted Airport, but no flights were disrupted. The airport and flights resumed normal operations shortly after the activists were detained.
Conclusion
The protest at Stansted Airport highlights the ongoing tension between climate activists and the use of private jets by celebrities and the wealthy. While the activists’ actions were aimed at raising awareness about carbon emissions, the misidentification of Taylor Swift’s jet underscores the complexities and potential pitfalls of such high-profile protests.
Sources
- Just Stop Oil activists deny Stansted Airport spray paint damage, BBC.
- Climate activists covered private jets in orange paint in a Taylor Swift-inspired stunt, but didn’t get her plane , Business Insider.
- Taylor Swift’s private Jet vandalised at Stansted Airport in London ahead of Wembley Eras Tour – Hindustan Times, Hindustan Times.
- Climate activists arrested for spray-painting private jets orange at London airport | AP News, AP News.
- Climate activists spray paint private jets, mistakenly believe Taylor Swift’s plane was at airport, New York Post.