Hong Kong airport cancels flight operations for second day amid protests

Passengers had been warned to expect further disruption to arrivals and departures throughout much of Tuesday (13 August) after hundreds of flights were cancelled on Monday (12 August) when airport authorities halted departures amid chaos in the terminal.

Flights resumed on Tuesday but all remaining flights were cancelled shortly before 6pm local time (10.45am UK time) for a second consecutive day.

Thousands have gathered at the airport as the demonstrations over the territory’s proposed new extradition bill, ongoing since June, continue

On Tuesday, the airport initially said in a statement it would “implement flight rescheduling”, with flight movements “expected to be affected”.

“Passengers are reminded to pay attention to the latest flight information via the airport’s website and HKG My Flight mobile app,” the statement read.

“Please confirm flights before heading to the airport. Passengers can also check with their airlines for the latest flight information.”

However, an updated statement said: “Airport operations at Hong Kong International airport have been seriously disrupted, and all departure flights have been cancelled.

“All passengers are advised to leave the terminal buildings as soon as possible. Affected passengers please contact their respective airlines for flight arrangement.”

The Foreign office updated its guidance overnight, warning of an unannounced protest at 1pm local time (6am UK time) and ongoing cancellations.

“Reports indicate the protests are likely continue,” said the FCO. “You should be prepared that the situation around protests and public gatherings could change quickly.

“You should remain vigilant, follow the advice of local authorities and move away quickly to a safe place if there are signs of disorder.”

The FCO further warned unauthorised protests were increasingly spilling over into tourist areas, posing a threat to travellers.

“Unauthorised protests have become more frequent and widespread, affecting many areas across Hong Kong, including some areas popular with tourists on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon,” said the FCO.

“Compared to authorised protests, unauthorised protests are met by a more rapid and more severe police response. Recent unauthorised protests have attracted heavy use of tear gas, including in built-up and residential areas. You should therefore exercise vigilance in the vicinity of unauthorised protests.”