Thousands of protesters at Hong Kong International Airport have caused the busy international hub to suspend all outgoing flights amid chaos and threat of police action.
Monday marked the fourth day of sit-ins at the airport by thousands of protesters who oppose the Chinese government and legislation that would allow Hong Kongers to be extradited by mainland China. While protests have been ongoing for months, demands have evolved into cries for more democracy and an end to police brutality as violent clashes with law enforcement have caused outrage among citizens.
“Don’t trust the police,” said one sign at the Hong Kong airport. Protesters also encouraged travelers to “turn back” and even apologized for the disruption their protest was causing. “Sorry for the inconvenience! We have no choice,” said a sign being held by a young protester.
A female protester received a serious eye injury during a violent confrontation on Sunday when police began firing tear gas and nonlethal bullets into the crowd. “An eye for an eye,” became a common theme at the Monday airport protests with many black-clad protesters donning an eye patch in solidarity with the injured woman.
JUST IN: All flights cancelled out of Hong Kong as thousands of protesters besiege airport over police violence https://t.co/rbc9AZWoWP via @hongkongfp pic.twitter.com/Bh8WfupJkp
— Kris Cheng (@krislc) August 12, 2019
Crowds began to thin at the airport as rumors of serious police action became widespread. All shops and restaurants remained closed and several hundred protesters remained by Monday evening, causing the airport to continue the suspension of all outgoing flights. Over 70 incoming flights were also canceled or rerouted, causing major travel disruptions.
“All passengers are advised to leave the terminal buildings as soon as possible,” a statement from the airport said on Monday. “Affected passengers please contact their respective airlines for flight arrangement.”
Hong Kong International Airport averages over 800 flights daily and is a major international connection hub from global travelers.
