Groningen Airport Eelde (GAE) asks farmers not to take any action at the airport tomorrow. A major farmers’ protest is planned for tomorrow, in which airports also seem to be the target.
According to the Drenthe airport, there are as yet no indications that farmers are also moving to Eelde, but GAE is still preparing for it. Groningen Airport Eelde is in consultation with the police and the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee about this. “The latter is responsible for law enforcement and security at Dutch airports.”
Groningen Airport Eelde says it understands the situation of the farmers, but hopes that the airport will be spared tomorrow. “To allow its services of general social interest, such as the deployment of the trauma helicopter, the ambulance service and the donor flights for the UMCG to continue at all times, as well as to allow the northerner to enjoy his or her holiday.” GAE says it will keep travelers informed via its website and social media.
Last month, a dozen farmers were already at the airport. The group then met with tractors on Legroweg in Eelde and blocked the entrance to the airport. Traffic was slowly allowed through. Later that evening, the farmers went to the departure hall. Dolls were placed in front of the entrance of the hall and a sign with the text We are no longer welcome in this country† A gallows hung from one of the agricultural vehicles. After a conversation with mayor Marcel Thijsen, they left again.
Protests are certainly expected around Schiphol. Schiphol Airport advises travelers who have to take a flight tomorrow to come by train if possible. “Due to a possible protest by farmers, it may be busier than usual on Dutch roads on Monday 4 July,” the airport said.
It is not clear what the exact impact of the actions is. Airline KLM makes a similar appeal to travelers flying from Schiphol.