LEIPZIG/HALLE (dpa-AFX) - The Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland (BUND) has filed a lawsuit against the planned expansion of the Leipzig/Halle cargo airport. According to the regional associations in Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, the aim of the lawsuit is to have the decision of the responsible authorities reviewed by the courts. This decision allows the handling capacity of what is already Germany's second-largest cargo airport to be doubled from 2032.

"Fatal disregard for the climate crisis"

The expansion was approved despite numerous objections from citizens, associations and public interest groups, it said. "Ultimately, civil society has no choice but to take legal action against such a decision," said Felix Ekardt, Chairman of the Saxon state association.

It must be clarified whether the expansion is even legal in view of the climate crisis, the health impacts and the enormous public costs. "Doubling the capacity of a cargo airport in times of climate crisis is not only a step in the wrong direction, but a fatal disregard for the livelihoods of future generations," said Ekardt.

The Saxon State Directorate had approved the expansion of the airport in September. The project involves expanding the apron area by 39 hectares within the airport site. The aim is to significantly increase handling capacity for freight.

500 million euros for new hub

Leipzig/Halle Airport on the border of Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt is now the second-largest cargo airport in Germany. Cargo aircraft are permitted to fly at night. The operator, Mitteldeutsche Flughafen AG, plans to invest 500 million euros. The shipping company DHL Express is planning to expand its logistics hub at the airport./djj/DP/mis