Activists hold demonstration at Scots airport over private jet company

Environmental activists flocked to a Scottish airport to protest against a private jet company.

Extinction Rebellion Scotland held a demonstration at Inverness Airport on Saturday in what was a call-out of Blackbird Air’s chief executive Anders Povlsen, who protesters say uses private jets frequently, all while making a commitment to nature conservation.

Protesters waved banners emblazoned with: “Ban Private Jets”, and: “Blackbird Nae mAir”, and: “We’re in a climate emergency. We need to step up and take action”.

They called upon Mr Povlsen to shut down Blackbird Air and instead invest in environmentally-friendly transportation.

The protesters join fellow activists from Scientist Rebellion in Denmark, who staged a similar demonstration at Blackbird HQ at Billund Airport.

Mr Povlsen owns a vast amount of land in Scotland also operates Wildland, a private enterprise which aims to act upon the climate crisis.

Sarah Birkby, from Extinction Rebellion Highlands and Islands and Moray, said: “It is completely contradictory to state the importance of acting on the climate emergency and at the same time run a private jet company.

“The time when people, no matter how rich, could say one thing and do the exact opposite is over.

“As Wildland Ltd itself declares, we need people to step up and take action.”

Anthony Graham from Scientists for Extinction Rebellion added: “The evidence is clear: our current emissions pathway is incompatible with a safe planet.

“Every tonne of CO2 fuels climate change, yet private jets – used by the wealthiest 0.003% – emit disproportionate amounts, worsening both the climate crisis and inequality.

“Scientists for Extinction Rebellion urge action on luxury emissions, stressing that those with the most power must lead by example.”

Police were in attendance and there was no impact on passengers. Operations at Inverness Airport continue as normal

Inverness Airport is operated by Highland and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL).

A spokesperson said: “Police were in attendance and there was no impact on passengers.

“Operations at Inverness Airport continue as normal.”

Blackbird Air was approached for comment.