Violent Passenger Attacks Airport Kiosks in Rampage

The 35-year-old British tourist faces criminal charges after damaging 10 check-in machines at Hong Kong International Airport.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

A British tourist was arrested at Hong Kong International Airport after going on a violent rampage, toppling and damaging over 10 check-in kiosks. Footage shows the man pushing down the machines one by one before using a metal stanchion to bludgeon the fallen equipment. Airport staff and security immediately intervened, warning the man to stop, before police were called and he was detained. The man was found to be carrying Viagra pills without a prescription, which could result in additional charges.

Why it matters

Disruptive and destructive behavior by passengers at airports has been an ongoing issue, raising concerns about public safety, security protocols, and the need for better de-escalation training for airport staff. This incident highlights the potential legal consequences travelers can face for such actions, as well as the impact on airport operations and the traveling public.

The details

According to reports, the 35-year-old British tourist was purchasing a plane ticket at Hong Kong International Airport when he suddenly went on a rampage, toppling a row of automated check-in kiosks. Footage shows the man methodically pushing down each machine before grabbing a metal stanchion and using it to batter one of the fallen kiosks. In total, the man is said to have damaged 10 check-in machines, as well as metal barriers, nearby counters, and a glass panel. Airport staff and security rushed to the scene, warning the man to stop his destructive behavior, before police were called and he was arrested.

  • The incident occurred on Monday morning at Hong Kong International Airport.

The players

British Tourist

A 35-year-old British national who was visiting Hong Kong on a 6-month visa and is accused of going on a violent rampage at the airport, damaging numerous check-in kiosks.

Airport Authority

The organization responsible for managing and operating Hong Kong International Airport, whose personnel and security responded to the incident.

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What’s next

The British tourist was arrested and an investigation has been launched into the incident. He could face up to 10 years in prison for 'criminal damage' and up to 2 years for the illegal possession of Viagra pills without a prescription.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for better security protocols and de-escalation training at airports to prevent disruptive and destructive behavior by passengers. It also highlights the serious legal consequences travelers can face for such actions, which can significantly disrupt airport operations and endanger public safety.