The Vietnamese Ministry of Construction has proposed investing in equipment to detect and neutralise unauthorised drones near airports following incidents that disrupted flights and threatened aviation safety.
In a report to the Ministry of Public Security reviewing aviation security regulations, the construction ministry warned that unauthorised drone activity around airports had become increasingly difficult to control.
Drones entering restricted airspace could endanger aircraft during take-off and landing, disrupt airport operations and potentially cause serious accidents, the ministry said.
The ministry also raised concerns about kites, including illuminated kites fitted with whistles, which can be difficult to detect, locate and remove.
Such incidents have caused airport disruptions lasting up to four hours in some cases.
Flights at Cat Bi, Noi Bai, Danang and Tan Son Nhat international airports have been affected, with aircraft forced to circle, make another approach, divert to alternative airports or delay departures.
According to the ministry, the disruptions had caused passenger anxiety and financial losses for airlines.
To address the problem, it proposed reviewing and updating coordination procedures for handling unauthorised drones, alongside more effective enforcement of existing regulations.
Airport-specific response protocols should be developed to reflect local geography, environmental conditions and the capabilities of on-site security forces.
The ministry also urged local authorities to strengthen public awareness campaigns on drone regulations and aviation safety, particularly in schools and residential areas near airports.
It recommended investing in systems capable of detecting and neutralising drones and other flying objects entering prohibited airspace.
Local police should coordinate with relevant agencies to investigate violations and take strict action against offenders, the ministry said.