Passengers told to go to HK airport early

Hong Kong International Airport

Passengers using the Hong Kong international airport from Sunday to Tuesday should go there early as anti-government protesters are expected to create gridlock on the roads and trains, the airport authority said.

The Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA) said it was aware that demonstrators were planning to disrupt transportation routes going to Check Lap Kok starting on Sunday and during the two days of citywide general strikes on Monday and Tuesday.

“AA is aware that there have been calls for attempts to block traffic to Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) on 1 September, as well as calls for public activities in different parts of Hong Kong on 2 and 3 September,” the airport authority said.

“Passengers are advised to allow sufficient time to travel to the airport. Passengers may also check with their respective airlines, or visit the airport’s website and “HKG My Flight” mobile app for updated flight information,” it added.

Demonstrators occupied the airport on August 13 and 14, resulting in hundreds of outbound flights being grounded.

Protesters have again called for a general strike on Monday and Tuesday (September 2 and 3).

The airport authority warned that those who will again try to impede airport operations risk violating the High Court injunction prohibiting protests in the area.

“Any person who neglects to obey or comply with the order, or any person who assists or incites, aids or abets another in disobeying the order may be held in contempt of court, and is liable to imprisonment or a fine,” the authority said.

“Blocking roads connecting to the airport may constitute acts of unlawfully and wilfully obstructing or interfering with the proper use of the airport,” it added.

The airport authority has also implemented controls on public access to the HKIA to prevent protesters from getting in.

“Until further notice, only bona fide passengers with a valid air ticket or boarding pass for a flight in the next 24 hours and a valid travel document will be allowed to enter the terminal buildings,” the authority said.

“Passengers are reminded to arrive at the airport three hours before their departure time for relevant checks at the designated access control checkpoints equipped with 24-hour security cameras,” it said.

“Other members of the public, including those who may want to accompany departure passengers or receiving arrival passengers at the airport should not travel to the airport unless absolutely necessary,” the authority added.