Under Government Decree 282/2025/ND-CP, which took effect on Dec. 15, 2025, authorities have introduced stricter penalties for violations involving unmanned aircraft and ultralight flying vehicles.
Operators who fail to register their aircraft, obtain a flight permit or comply with approved flight areas and schedules can be fined between VND 2 million and VND 3 million.
Using drones to capture aerial photos or videos without permission from competent authorities carries fines of VND 8 million to VND 9 million.
Meanwhile, organising unauthorised drone flights can result in penalties ranging from VND 20 million to VND 30 million.
More serious violations, including operating drones in ways that interfere with aviation activities or threaten the safety of other aircraft, are subject to fines of VND 30 million to VND 40 million.
In addition to monetary penalties, violators may have their drones confiscated or their flight permits suspended for between three and six months. Organisations committing the same offences may face fines up to twice those imposed on individuals.
Hanoi police urged drone users to familiarise themselves with relevant regulations, obtain the necessary permits and operate only in authorised areas.
Authorities also warned against flying drones in restricted zones, military areas, key infrastructure sites or locations subject to national security and defence requirements.
Officials said compliance with the regulations would help ensure aviation safety, national security and public order.
