Vientiane:The Lao People's Democratic Republic is revising its Civil Aviation Law to bring national regulations in line with international standards, a move aimed at enhancing aviation safety and security oversight. This legislative update is also intended to address compliance gaps in anticipation of upcoming audits by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
According to Lao News Agency, Minister of Public Works and Transport Leklai Sivilay presented the proposed amendments during the 2nd Ordinary Session of the 10th National Assembly on October 15, 2026. The revised draft law seeks to update the existing legislation from June 26, 2018. It aims to reflect advancements in technology, changes in socio-economic conditions, and new international aviation requirements. While the current law consists of 18 parts, 27 chapters, and 174 articles, the revised draft includes 16 parts, 35 chapters, and 189 articles.
The main goal of these revisions is to prepare Laos for ICAO assessments under the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme and the Universal Security Audit Programme, addressing any outstanding compliance issues. The revision process was part of the government's 2026-2030 law-making plan. A drafting committee established on March 5, 2026, by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, conducted consultations with relevant agencies, performed comparative studies in Cambodia, and gathered feedback from central and local stakeholders. The draft was reviewed by the Ministry of Justice, the government, and relevant National Assembly committees.
The revised law encompasses various aspects of aviation, including aircraft and technical personnel, airports and air traffic, accident investigations, air transport, aviation safety, general aviation, unmanned aircraft, aviation businesses, regulatory management, inspections, fees, penalties, and other related matters. Once adopted and promulgated, the law is expected to strengthen the legal framework for meeting international aviation obligations, enhance regulatory oversight, and support the country's Civil Aviation Development Strategy through 2030. It also aims to improve safety, transparency, and consumer protection while fostering investment and connectivity with regional and international aviation networks.