The Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has recently announced it is cancelling its 63rd Assembly of Presidents in Hong Kong due to ongoing unrest in the city.

In a statement, AAPA said the decision to cancel the event — which is an annual gathering of AAPA airline bosses — was made after careful deliberation with host airline Hong Kong flag carrier, Cathay Pacific.

The conference was scheduled for November 21 and 22 in Hong Kong.

AAPA has 15 airline members in Asia Pacific including Air Astana, All Nippon Airways, Asiana, Bangkok Airways, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Eva Air, Garuda Indonesia, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Royal Brunei Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways International.

“This was a difficult decision, given our commitment to organize this important industry event, but reflects the unpredictability of the situation in Hong Kong,’’ AAPA said in a statement.

“AAPA deeply regrets the inconvenience and disappointment caused by this change of plans.

“We are reaching out to all registered participants in the coming days and will provide assistance as necessary,” it added.

The move comes as the city continues to be embroiled in political unrest that has been ongoing for more than five months often affecting major thoroughfares and the business district.