✔ 最佳答案
The answer is yes - airlines can deny boarding as you don't have a valid travel document, even you are returning to the place of issuance of that document.
You will need to go to your nearest Chinese Consulate to get a new passport (or travel document if urgent) if you are using HKSAR Passport.
If you are using BN(O) Passport, check with your local High Commission for extension purpose (it is a mess to get a new British Passport, so if you can, get an extension instead).
2014-09-03 20:36:38 補充:
Simple - a single question will resolve your concern:
If you are asked to pick an answer from here, which one has a higher risk if the answer turn out to be incorrect?