Bangkok imposes drone ban for IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings

The Thai government has issued a temporary ban on drone operations in the VT R1 Bangkok City restricted area on October 16, 2026. The restriction spans the entire day, from 00:01 to 23:59, to ensure security during the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings 2026.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the Metropolitan Police Bureau are coordinating these measures to mitigate potential threats during the international summit, which will be held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center and surrounding areas in Bangkok.

Violators of this ban face penalties of up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Any drone operations required for official meeting-related missions must receive prior authorization through the UAS Portal and must be coordinated with the Metropolitan Police Bureau's anti-drone center.