Climate activists blocked access to Farnborough Airport to protest against proposed expansion plans that would allow thousands more private jet flights per year.

The demonstration on Sunday (February 1) morning followed the end of a public consultation period on the plans, which are now under review by Rushmoor Borough Council.

Protesters gathered at the airport’s main entrance, holding banners with messages such as ‘Stop private flights’ and ‘Climate emergency’.

Some released smoke flares, while others engaged with passersby, accompanied by drummers from activist groups. The protest was organised by Extinction Rebellion (XR) Waverley and Borders, Farnborough Noise Group, Blackwater Valley Friends of the Earth, and Alton Climate Action Network.

Farnborough Airport has proposed increasing the airport’s flight limit and the number of weekend flights. Airport representatives argue that the changes are necessary to meet demand and support economic growth in the region.

Joining the protesters was Cllr Steve Williams, environment portfolio holder for Waverley Borough Council.

He said: “Aviation has no realistic prospect of becoming sustainable in the near future, so any form of airport expansion is unacceptable, given the climate crisis.

“Expansion at Farnborough is particularly iniquitous because of the impact on the locality nearby and the massive carbon footprint of the privileged few who choose to travel by private jet.”

Protester Pete Goodman from Farnham said he was on a camper van holiday in Valencia last year when the region was hit by deadly storms.

He said: My 'holiday snaps' didn't need to go into a camera as they are etched into my memory forever. Excessive warming of the Med was the cause and it is due to high carbon emissions, of which the worst are executive jets.”

Chris Neil, a resident from Shackleford, argued that private aviation is primarily used for leisure rather than business.

“Farnborough’s busiest day is Sunday. This is not about essential business travel, it’s about luxury flights for a small number of people,” he said.

Airport representatives have yet to publicly respond to the protest but have previously stated that the expansion would bring economic benefits and job opportunities to the area.

The campaigners say they will continue to raise awareness of what they view as the environmental consequences of increased private aviation. They have raised concerns about noise pollution and quality of life for those living near flight paths.

Meanwhile, some residents argue that the airport plays an important role in the local economy and that restricting flights could have unintended consequences.

Farnborough Airport recently delayed submitting its expansion plans to allow further time for consultation.

The spokesperson said: "It is right that we take the time to ensure that the planning application is responsive and considerate to the feedback that we receive.

“Farnborough Airport is an integral part of the UK's airport infrastructure, and we are committed to delivering the local and national economic opportunities that this application will create."

Rushmoor Borough Council has not yet set a date for its final decision on the proposed expansion.