Pro-democracy campaigners have begun a sit-in at Hong Kong International Airport that could last for days.
Demonstrations have been taking place across the Special Administrative Region since early June, which were initially against a controversial extradition bill and have since expanded into a movement against influence from mainland China.
Protesters say they are targeting the airport in order to promote their message to arriving passengers.
Images and videos being shared on Twitter show hundreds of protesters, dressed in black, sitting on the floor of the airport. Many are using laptops, and no violence has been reported.
Organisers say they expect thousands may take part.
The protest began at 1300 local time on Friday, with protesters distributing leaflets in the arrival hall.
The airport had increased security in preparation, according to the South China Morning Post.
The Hong Kong-based newspaper reported that a new restricted area was created in a large part of the airport that would normally be open to the public. Only departing travellers with tickets or boarding passes for flights in the next 24 hours and a valid travel document will be allowed to access the check-in aisles at Terminal 1 from 0600 to 1159 between August 9 and 11.
Cathay Pacific has posted the following statement:
“Our flights to and from Hong Kong International Airport are currently operating as normal.
“Passengers should allow sufficient time for travelling to the airport, as there may be congestion on roads and public transportation. Additionally, there may be added entrance procedures at the airport β to save time, we highly recommend checking in online at cathaypacific.com.
“All customers scheduled to fly are advised to check Flight Status before proceeding to the airport.”
Hundreds of flights out of Hong Kong were cancelled on Monday due to a city-wide strike that brought many transportation services to a halt.
News agency Reuters is currently running a live stream from inside the airport:
