In a concerning development for aviation safety in Vietnam, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has reported multiple illegal drone intrusions at Tho Xuan Airport in Thanh Hoa province over June 13 and 14, 2025. These unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) posed a serious threat to civil aviation operations, prompting urgent responses from aviation authorities and local government officials.
The CAAV described the situation as a continuous and complex challenge, difficult to control and carrying significant risks to flight safety at Tho Xuan Airport. The detection of these drones not only disrupted normal airport activities but also raised alarms about the security of the airspace surrounding the facility.
Immediately upon discovering the intrusions, the CAAV issued a hỏa tốc (urgent) directive to Tho Xuan Airport and all related agencies, emphasizing the need for rapid and coordinated responses. The authority called for enhanced collaboration among air traffic control, aviation security forces, military units, and other relevant bodies to ensure any illegal flying devices are detected and dealt with promptly.
Moreover, the CAAV urged increased public awareness campaigns in partnership with local authorities to educate residents near airports about aviation safety and legal restrictions concerning drone usage. This approach aims to prevent further violations by informing the community about the risks and legal consequences of unauthorized drone flights near critical aviation infrastructure.
The Northern Aviation Port Authority (NAPA) was tasked with leading the investigation into the incidents on June 13 and 14. They are responsible for identifying and penalizing those involved in the illegal drone flights, in accordance with Vietnam's aviation laws. The CAAV specifically recommended that the Thanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee direct local agencies to work closely with NAPA and Tho Xuan Airport to track down the individuals responsible and enforce strict legal measures.
Following the CAAV's urgent notice, NAPA convened an emergency meeting involving key stakeholders to discuss timely and effective solutions. This meeting was chaired by Mr. Mai Xuan Liem, Vice Chairman of the Thanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee, who underscored the seriousness of the situation and the province's commitment to resolving it swiftly.
The meeting included representatives from the Provincial Military Command, Air Force Regiment E923, Thanh Hoa Provincial Police, and aviation sector agencies. Their collective efforts focus on enhancing surveillance, patrolling, and control measures in the areas surrounding Tho Xuan Airport to prevent further drone incursions.
Vietnamese aviation law, under Decree 144/2021, stipulates penalties for unauthorized drone operations. Individuals operating UAVs without official permits face fines ranging from 20 to 30 million VND. More severe penalties, including fines from 30 to 40 million VND and confiscation of equipment, apply to those whose drone activities obstruct or endanger other aircraft.
Mr. Mai Xuan Liem, speaking to the press on June 15, 2025, reaffirmed the province's proactive stance. He noted that local authorities have been instructed to intensify public education efforts to ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations among residents near the airport. He also confirmed that military and law enforcement agencies are actively investigating to identify those responsible for the drone violations.
This incident at Tho Xuan Airport highlights the growing challenge that drones pose to aviation safety worldwide. While drones offer numerous benefits in various sectors, their misuse near airports can lead to dangerous situations, including potential collisions and disruption of flight operations. The Vietnamese authorities’ swift and coordinated response reflects an understanding of these risks and a determination to protect civil aviation.
In addition to immediate enforcement actions, the CAAV's call for ongoing public awareness campaigns signals a long-term strategy to mitigate such risks by fostering a culture of safety and compliance. The collaboration between aviation authorities, military, police, and local governments represents a comprehensive approach to managing the complex issue of unauthorized drone flights.
As investigations continue, the aviation community and the public await further updates on the outcomes of these efforts and any new measures introduced to safeguard the airspace around Vietnam's airports. The Tho Xuan incident serves as a critical reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation in maintaining the integrity of national airspace in an era of rapidly advancing drone technology.
