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British tourist destroys check-in kiosks at Hong Kong airport

Photo: Adobe Stock

February 23, 2026

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A violent incident occurred Feb. 16 inside Terminal 1 at Hong Kong International Airport when a man was seen knocking over automated check-in kiosks and smashing them with a metal pole. Video footage that later went viral showed the man approaching a row of kiosks in the departure area and pushing them over one after another.

After toppling the machines, the man reportedly grabbed a metal stanchion used for passenger queue lines and repeatedly struck the fallen kiosks, according to a Fox News report. The rampage caused significant damage, reportedly affecting about 10 kiosks, as well as nearby metal barriers, counters and a glass panel. Travelers and airport staff watched the incident unfold, with no immediate intervention visible in the footage.

Authorities later identified the individual as a 35-year-old British tourist who had allegedly been attempting to purchase a plane ticket before the outburst began. The reason for his actions remains unclear. Airport personnel and security officers eventually responded, warning him to stop and calling police to the scene.

Along with the kiosk destruction, officers found he was carrying four Viagra pills without a prescription when he was detained. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the episode.