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Tan Son Nhat Airport airspace security incidents

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2026-08-28 07:51 UTC → 2026-08-29 02:58 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City has faced multiple operational disruptions due to unauthorized objects in the airspace. On August 11, the airport suspended takeoff and landing operations twice following multiple drone sightings at various altitudes, including sightings near flights VJ601 and 3S621. These incidents affected between 56 and 100 flights, forcing several aircraft to enter holding patterns or divert to alternate airports such as Can Tho and Cam Ranh. On August 13, between 20:20 and 20:30, air traffic control implemented a ground stop after detecting unidentified flying objects. Authorities identified the objects as three large kites equipped with flashing lights and flutes, spotted at an altitude exceeding 300 to 400 meters near the Tay Thanh ward area and Tan Binh Industrial Park. This incident affected approximately 21 flights, including flight EK392 from Dubai. In response to the incursions, Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc directed various ministries to strengthen the management and monitoring of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Vietnam Airlines reported losses of approximately 5.6 billion VND and disruptions affecting over 9,000 passengers. The Ministry of Public Security is leading the probe, while the Ministry of National Defence will coordinate to enhance UAV management. Authorities aim to have all domestic drones digitally identified and monitored in real-time by 2030. Following the investigation into the August 13 kite incident, Ho Chi Minh City police have prosecuted and detained 42-year-old Than Van Tan for ‘obstructing air traffic’ under Clause 2, Article 278 of the Penal Code. Investigations revealed that Tan flew multiple kites in areas designated as no-fly zones for unmanned aerial vehicles and ultra-light aircraft. Authorities located Tan in the Binh Hung Hoa ward before issuing the arrest warrant.

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