On 6 April, the Sanya Municipal Government issued a notice to tighten regulations on low-altitude, slow-speed small aircraft and airborne objects during the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 (the Games).

The notice states that between 08:00 on 15 April and 24:00 on 30 April, all unauthorised flights of such aircraft and airborne objects are prohibited within the administrative regions of Jiyang District and Tianya District. Violations will be penalised by public security authorities in accordance with the law, and criminal charges may be pursued if applicable.

The notice explicitly outlines the scope of controlled objects. “Low, slow, and small” aircraft refer not only to typical drones and racing drones but also include small aircraft flying below 1,000 metres in altitude and at speeds under 200 km/h. This category encompasses light aircraft, helicopters, gliders, hang gliders, powered paragliders, and airships.

In addition, airborne objects that may be lifted by wind and therefore pose safety risks, such as sky lanterns, free-floating balloons and tethered balloons, are also included within the scope of strict control.

The restrictions will 16 days, beginning at 08:00 on 15 April and ending at 24:00 on 30 April. They cover both the final preparation stage and the official Games competition period, which runs from 22 to 30 April.

The restricted areas are centred on the main event zones in Jiyang District and Tianya District, where controls will be strictly enforced. Exceptions will be made for operations with prior special approval.

The notice does not impose a blanket ban on all flight activities but establishes a strict approval mechanism.

Units requiring flights for emergency rescue, policing, security, or other critical operations must first obtain approval from air traffic management authorities and relevant industry regulators. They then must report to the Sanya 2026 security command centre and develop detailed emergency response procedures that align with approved plans before conducting any flights.

For aviation enthusiasts, the notice emphasizes the importance of correctly storing and managing privately owned aircraft to avoid accidental take-offs. It also urges the public to report unauthorised flight activities through the 110 emergency hotline.

The notice states that public security, emergency management, transport, culture and tourism, radio regulation, market supervision, civil aviation, air traffic management, and other departments will work together on supervision and enforcement.

Illegal flight activities will be handled according to legal procedures. Acts that threaten public safety or disturb public order will face administrative penalties, whereas criminal offenses will result in criminal charges.

The Sanya Municipal Government urges residents, visitors, and aviation enthusiasts to follow the restrictions, helping to ensure airspace security during the Games and promoting a safe and orderly environment for Sanya 2026.