HONG KONG: A major airline conference co-hosted by embattled Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. became the latest high-profile event to be pulled in Hong Kong because of the months-long protests, which have battered the city and threatened its status as a regional hub.

The unrest has torpedoed events from fireworks displays and theater shows to sports tournaments and an international tattoo convention. Organizers have blamed the protests, saying the safety of participants is paramount. The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines joined the party exodus Wednesday, when it aborteda gathering of executives planned for Hong Kong next week.