Thailand will host a global aviation event to showcase unmanned flight capabilities and promote itself as a future aviation hub in the region.
On 14 July 2026, Ms. Ploytale Laksameesangchan, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the Cabinet approved the Ministry of Transport's proposal to hold AAM 2026 from 1 to 3 December 2026 in Bangkok. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) will be the main organizer, using a budget of 721 million baht from CAAT's revenue.
This event will feature an international conference alongside exhibitions and flight demonstrations of "Unmanned Aircraft" and next-generation air transport technologies. It is expected to attract over 1,500 participants, including ministerial representatives, directors of civil aviation authorities, and senior executives from the global aviation industry.
Ms. Ploytale added that to ensure the event runs smoothly and with prestige, the Cabinet approved key measures: official endorsement of AAM 2026; approval of a draft agreement between Thailand and ICAO outlining mutual responsibilities; authorization for the Minister of Transport or a delegate to sign on Thailand's behalf; approval for the Royal Thai Police to facilitate visa issuance free of charge for ICAO officials; and strict security and traffic management around the event.
Ms. Ploytale stated that hosting AAM 2026 will generate positive impacts for Thailand in three main areas: boosting the economy and investment by announcing Thailand’s readiness as a regional Aviation Hub for new aircraft types and attracting global investors in unmanned aviation; elevating laws to international standards by developing regulations and oversight frameworks for modern aviation technology in line with ICAO standards; and integrating technology through public-private cooperation to apply advanced aviation technologies sustainably within the country’s development context.