Targets
Picking your target will be one of the first things you do, when you decide you want to do an action related to aviation. Choosing the right target is essential for maximizing impact. Your target isn’t just a location or a person—it’s the focal point of your action, which will draw attention to the broader issues you’re addressing. The choice might stem from a particular hook you want to take advantage of (ie. an industry conference or the arrival of the private jet of a high profile celebrity) or simply from trying to find the space that can convey your message better. Consider whether your target reflects a “location of destruction” (where harm is occurring and can be made visible to the public) or a “location of decision-making” (where people in power can enact change). A strong target might blend both aspects, depending on the specific injustice you want to highlight.
While choosing your target, it’s important to consider the potential impact on passengers or bystanders. Avoiding direct confrontation with them can help ensure that the focus remains on the aviation industry and those in power, rather than risking backlash from people who are not directly responsible for the issues being highlighted.
A good target should take into consideration the specific injustice you want to highlight, who has the power to change that injustice, and the potential of a location for public visibility and engagement.
1. Where is the injustice taking place
Identify where the injustice you want to confront is most visible. This might be at an airport where expansion plans threaten local communities, or at the headquarters of an airline flying high on greenwashing. The location itself should embody the problem you’re addressing, making it clear to the public why the action is taking place there.
2. Power to change
Next, consider who has the authority to address or rectify the injustice. This could be a government body that regulates aviation, a corporation profiting from harmful practices, or even a high-profile individual whose actions contribute to the problem. Your target should be someone or something that can directly influence change.
3. Visibility and Interaction
Finally, evaluate how visible your target is and the opportunities for interaction it provides. A target that is highly visible—like a busy airport terminal, a well-known company’s headquarters, or a public event—will attract more attention and media coverage. Additionally, consider how your action will engage the public. Targets that allow for meaningful interaction with bystanders or the media can help amplify your message and build support for your cause.
Airports
Lobbies, taxiways, aircraft, road access, fuel lines, detention centers, energy infrastructure, equipment
Airlines
Headquarters, AGM, events, check in offices (inside airports)
Private jets
Aircraft, terminals, airline headquarters, celebrities & politicians, conferences/sales events, events people fly to on private jets (ie. film festivals, tennis matches)
Firms
Contractors & airport operators (e.g. Vinci, Groupe ADP, Fraport, Munich Airport International, Foster + Partners, Boskalis), aircraft factories, enabling industries (e.g. advertisement firms, law firms)
Governments & authorities
Ministries (e.g. infrastructure, environment, mobility, tourism, energy), government events, regulators (e.g. ICAO, EASA)