ALL flights from Hong Kong Sirport, one of the world's busiest, have been cancelled for the day after thousands of pro-democracy protesters crowded into the main terminal.
Hong Kong International Airport said in a statement Monday afternoon that the demonstration "seriously disrupted" airport operations.
It added that all check-in services for departing flights had been suspended.
It said only those flights that have already completed the check-in process will move ahead.
Hong Kong has experienced more than two months of mass protests calling for democratic reforms and an independent inquiry into police conduct.
The protest movement's demands also include the resignation of the Chinese territory's leader and an election for her successor.
Hong Kong, a former British colony, was returned to China in 1997 under the "one country, two systems" principle.
The UK Foreign Office has warned: "A protest at Hong Kong Airport on 12 August has resulted in the cancellation of all flights out of Hong Kong for the remainder of 12 August.
"The airport authorities advise members of the public not to travel to the airport."
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Cathay Pacific all fly direct from the UK, with passengers although affected by non-direct routes with Lufthansa, Etihad and Emirates.
However, concerned travellers were left to ask on social media what was happening.
Twitter user Ray asked: "@British_Airways Can I check on the status of BA032?
"Because the last news I've received is Hong Kong Airport has cancelled all remaining flights."
Another person tweeted: "@EtihadAirways stuck at hong Kong airport nobody here what is going on."
Freelance journalist Danny Lee said he was "shocked" people were still travelling to the airport, with one couple saying their airline "hadn't been told" therefore their flight was okay, which wasn't true.
In a statement on their website, Cathay Pacific wrote: "Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon have been informed by the Hong Kong International Airport Authority that all departing flights are cancelled today, Monday 12 August, effective immediately.
"The cancellation period will extend until the morning of tomorrow, Tuesday 13 August. This is as a result of the public assembly taking place at Hong Kong International Airport.
"Customers are therefore advised to postpone non-essential travel both today (12 August) and tomorrow (13 August) and should not proceed to the airport. Additionally, In-town Check-in services have been suspended."
Sun Online Travel has contacted the affected airlines for comment.
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