Protesters block runway at Stanstead airport

Members of a climate action group broke into a secure area of London's Stansted Airport (EGSS/STN) at approximately 0315 local time on 8 December 2008 and blocked a runway. The group planned to occupy the area for as long as possible, intending to draw attention to pollution from the aviation industry and to protest the expansion of Stansted Airport. Approximately 50 protesters participated in the action. Police officers contained the area where the activists were demonstrating and removed them at approximately 0810 local time. Flights resumed shortly thereafter, however, significant delays continued after the runway was reopened. No violence was reported.