CHIANG RAI — Provincial authorities in Chiang Rai issued a strict ban on sky lanterns near the airport ahead of upcoming seasonal celebrations. Officials launched a public safety campaign on November 9, 2026, to protect commercial aircraft during Loy Krathong and New Year festivities.
Chiang Rai Governor Chucheep Pongchai led the campaign launch at the Chainarayan Riverfront Hotel alongside aviation leaders and local security agencies. Airport director Kritsada Pukasap joined community chiefs to highlight the severe dangers floating lanterns and drones pose to passenger air travel.
Key Takeaways
- Officials enforce a complete ban on all sky lanterns and smoke lanterns inside designated air safety zones across Chiang Rai.
- Permitted areas allow smoke lanterns from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and floating fire lanterns from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM.
- Residents can verify official zone maps with the provincial administration or call airport helplines to prevent aviation hazards and penalties.
Aviation Risks and Safety Zone Regulations
Experts from Aeronautical Radio of Thailand and the Ban Du Police Station outlined the strict legal rules that govern local airspace. They warned that uncontrolled floating lanterns can enter jet engines, block cockpit visibility, and spark destructive structural fires across landing paths.
Consequently, provincial orders completely prohibit fire lanterns, smoke lanterns, and similar airborne objects within all safety-zoned districts, subdistricts, and villages. Law enforcement officers will patrol designated exclusion areas to intercept unauthorized launches and prosecute violators under federal aviation laws.
Approved Launch Windows and Drone Guidelines
Outside the strict safety perimeter, festival organizers may release traditional lanterns only during designated time slots specified by provincial orders. People celebrating Loy Krathong between November 23 and 25 may release smoke lanterns from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Revelers can also release fire lanterns from 9:00 PM until 1:00 AM the following morning across the same three-day period. For New Year celebrations on December 31, operators permit lanterns between 9:00 PM and 1:00 AM on New Year’s Day.
Furthermore, all recreational drone pilots must register their equipment and secure lawful clearances before operating in northern skies. Residents can review boundary maps through official provincial announcements or contact Mae Fah Luang Airport staff at 053-798000 for direct support.
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