Airport officials canceled all remaining outbound flights at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) on 12 August due to a large-scale anti-government protest at the airport.

Thousands of protesters occupied the airport for the fourth consecutive day on 12 August, disrupting airport operations. According to reports, inbound flights already en route would be allowed to land. Flights that have not yet departed will be delayed.

Analysis
Protesters had originally planned a three-day sit-in protest at HKIA that was expected to end on 11 August. However, violent clashes between police and protesters during the evening of 11 August prompted protesters to continue their demonstration at the airport.

On 11 August, confrontations between the police and protesters escalated with demonstrators throwing bricks and petrol bombs at the police who responded with baton charge, tear gas and rubber bullets, including in a metro station. Several injuries were reported.

The United States (US) Department of State (DoS) raised its travel warning for Hong Kong from Level 1 (“exercise normal precautions”) to Level 2 (“exercise increased caution”) on 7 August.

The ongoing unrest was triggered by the government’s attempt to pass a controversial extradition bill, which was eventually withdrawn. The protest movement has since expanded its demands to include the resignation of the territory’s leader Carrie Lam and respect for Hong Kong’s autonomy.

Advice

  • Individuals with scheduled flights at HKIA should contact the airport for flight information.
  • Avoid all protests and demonstrations to minimize the risk of exposure to incidental violence.
  • If you encounter unrest, exit the area as quickly as possible or seek shelter until the situation stabilizes.
  • Plan alternate routes to circumvent protest locations. Seek the assistance of a local host, or travel with a local driver, where possible.

Continue to monitor local media and continue to monitor our website for up-to-date information.

Our operations team is standing by 24/7/365 to provide travel assistance and advisory services to members. Contact Global Rescue at +1 617.459.4200 or email us at memberservices@globalrescue.com.