Thousands of protesters shut down Hong Kong International Airport

Emily Johnson

One of the world's busiest airports, Hong Kong's International Airport, canceled all flights Monday afternoon after thousands of pro-democracy protesters occupied the building. Hong Kong has experienced more than two months of mass demonstrations against police brutality and a controversial extradition bill.

Demonstrators flooded the airport's arrival and departure areas during the sit-in rally, stranding all travelers at the airport. Only flights that had already begun boarding or those cleared for landing were allowed to use runways at the airport.

"All other flights have been canceled for the rest of today," the airport statement said.

Here are eight incredible pictures showing the scale of the shutdown.

Protesters surround banners that read
Protesters surround banners that read
Protesters rest among signs at Hong Kong's International airport during a protest against the police brutality and the controversial extradition bill.
Protesters rest among signs at Hong Kong's International airport during a protest against the police brutality and the controversial extradition bill.
Travelers gather near a flights information board at the Hong Kong International airport.
Travelers gather near a flights information board at the Hong Kong International airport.
Protesters line up for a train at an airport station after a protest.
Protesters line up for a train at an airport station after a protest.
Australian Penny Tilley, center, reacts next to stranded travelers at the closed check-in counters at the Hong Kong International Airport.
Australian Penny Tilley, center, reacts next to stranded travelers at the closed check-in counters at the Hong Kong International Airport.
Protesters occupy the departure hall of the Hong Kong International Airport during a demonstration on August 12, 2019.
Protesters occupy the departure hall of the Hong Kong International Airport during a demonstration on August 12, 2019.

The Hong Kong airport says it will restart flights starting at 6 a.m. Tuesday, according to the Associated Press.

The Associated Press contributed reporting.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hong Kong protests: Pro-democracy protesters shut down airport