EXTINCTION REBELLION (XR) activists blocked access to Farnborough airport as they launched a global week of action against private jets today.

Protesters simultaneously barricaded gates and entrances at Britain’s largest private jet airport, using the group’s iconic pink boat, tripods and lock-ons while playing “cat and mouse” with the authorities, an XR spokesman said.

Teacher Daniela Voit from Surbiton said: “To carry on flying in private jets, one of the biggest causes for CO2 emissions per person, in a time of climate crisis is reckless.” 

Veterinary surgeon and foster carer Dr Jessica Upton from Oxford  declared private airports to be an abomination.

“Expanding Farnborough would be putting the indulgent wants of the rich minority over the needs of the majority,” she said.

The blockade is part of a week of protests under the banner Make Them Pay, with actions in Denmark, Germany, Mexico, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United States.