Bangkok drone ban set for October 16 during IMF-World Bank plenary

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) will prohibit drone flights throughout Bangkok’s designated VT R1 Bangkok City restricted area for 24 hours on Friday (October 16), as security is stepped up for the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings.

CAAT said the temporary restriction would run from 12.01am to 11.59pm on October 16, suspending the general permission that normally allows eligible unmanned aircraft operations within VT R1 Bangkok City. No person may operate or release a drone into the restricted area during that period unless specifically authorised.

The measure supports security arrangements for the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, being held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center and related locations in Bangkok from October 12–18.

CAAT published the formal notice restricting remotely piloted unmanned aircraft operations in VT R1 Bangkok City in connection with the Annual Meetings and related events.

Security tightened for October 16 plenary

The restrictions coincide with the Plenary Session of the Boards of Governors of the IMF and World Bank Group on October 16, one of the main events of the week and attended by senior representatives of the two institutions and participating countries.

The drone restrictions form part of joint security operations with the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s drone command and counter-drone unit, aimed at preventing potential risks or threats involving unmanned aircraft during the international gathering.

Meeting-related drone flights require special approval

Drone operations directly connected with the Annual Meetings may still be permitted, but operators must apply in advance through the UAS Portal and may fly only after receiving approval from the CAAT Director General.

Before every authorised flight, operators must submit details through the portal covering the flight area, date and time, and purpose of the operation.

They must also coordinate with the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s drone command and counter-drone centre at [email protected] and comply strictly with any additional conditions imposed by authorities.

CAAT’s existing guidance confirms that flights within VT R1 Bangkok City are subject to specific authorisation requirements and registration through its UAS system.

Violations carry jail term and fine

CAAT urged drone owners, operators and members of the public to check restricted areas and operating times before flying and to refrain from using drones in VT R1 Bangkok City on October 16 unless specifically authorised.

Violators face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both, under Section 78(1) of Thailand’s Air Navigation Act and subsequent amendments.

The Annual Meetings opened in Bangkok on October 12, bringing financial leaders, policymakers and representatives from the public and private sectors from 191 countries to Thailand.