Thai authorities have stepped up security measures at Suvarnabhumi Airport following reports of drones flying near the airport on the nights of 20 and 21 December, reinforcing safeguards for regional air travel.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn said Airports of Thailand (AOT) has instructed airport authorities to work closely with security agencies, the military, and police to prevent unauthorised drone activity.
The move came after the reported sightings raised safety concerns, though officials confirmed that flight operations were not disrupted.
Suvarnabhumi Airport Director Kittipong Kittikhachorn said the airport immediately activated its emergency response plan and conducted inspections of surrounding areas.
The airport promptly moved to strengthen anti-drone detection and countermeasure systems, with support from the Army, Air Force, and Royal Thai Police, according to Kittipong.
Thai police have also deployed additional officers, established checkpoints, and stopped vehicles near the airport to check for suspicious activity.
Authorities are reviewing registered drone owners in nearby areas and have asked surrounding communities, hotels, and businesses to report any unusual activity immediately.
Flying drones within a nine-kilometre radius of Suvarnabhumi Airport is illegal and poses serious risks to aviation safety. Under Thailand’s air navigation laws, violators face severe penalties, including life imprisonment in severe cases.
Suvarnabhumi Airport serves as a major transit hub for the region, with thousands of passengers travelling through Bangkok daily.
Thai authorities said the tightened measures aim to protect passenger safety, maintain confidence in Thailand’s aviation system, and ensure uninterrupted regional travel.
Updated at 11:15 AM on 23 December, Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) reported a mysterious drone swarm disrupting Suvarnabhumi Airport, with over 2,500 drones concealed in vehicles entering restricted areas.
Authorities are continuing their investigation.


