Facing drone disruption, Heathrow says illegal protest is counterproductive

London's Heathrow Airport said on Thursday a plan by climate activists to disrupt its operations with drone flights is criminal and counterproductive.

"We agree with the need to act on climate change. This is a global issue that requires constructive engagement and action. Committing criminal offenses and disrupting passengers is counterproductive," a spokesman Europe's biggest airport said of the plans by the environmental group "Heathrow Pause".

"The act of flying drones within 5km of an airfield is illegal because it carries risk. We will be working closely with the Met Police and other authorities to manage and mitigate any impacts this may cause."

Also Read: UPDATE 1-Climate activists to fly drones at London Heathrow airport from Sept. 13