Trial Against 'Last Generation' Activists Begins - Climate activist faces trial after gluing himself to Hamburg airport runway

A 21-year-old climate activist will face trial in Hamburg after gluing himself to an airport runway. The protest, linked to the 'Last Generation' group, allegedly disrupted flights and caused significant financial damage. Authorities claim the stunt was designed to grab media attention for the campaigners' cause.

The incident took place in 2025 when the activist allegedly attached his hand to the tarmac using superglue. The action forced flight cancellations, diversions, and costly repairs, with total damages estimated at €144,000. His trial was initially set for last year but was delayed until now.

The activist's group, 'Last Generation'—now renamed 'Neue Generation'—has seen growing legal scrutiny. By March 2026, at least four members were indicted in Germany under criminal organisation laws (§129 StGB). Cases have emerged in Munich, Flensburg, and Potsdam, with convictions already handed down for similar protests, such as road blockades. Courts in Munich and Heilbronn issued fines in 2022 and 2023, while federal data shows 690 penalty proceedings nationwide linked to the group. Prosecutors argue the runway protest was a deliberate attempt to maximise publicity. The activist's defence has yet to respond publicly to the charges.

The trial will determine whether the activist's actions constitute a criminal offence. A conviction could set a precedent for future protests by the group. Meanwhile, German authorities continue to pursue legal action against similar demonstrations under organised crime laws.