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Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore

Tethered aerial objects

Learn about aerial activities such as kite flying, kitesurfing, parasailing, tethered balloons and tethered sky lanterns, and when to apply for a permit to ensure compliant operations.

Last updated 8 May 2026

Aerial activities that pose an unacceptable risk to aviation safety are strictly prohibited. For example, the free release of sky lanterns is not allowed in Singapore. 

Others, such as flying a kite or putting up a large tethered balloon, may pose safety risks to air navigation when conducted near an airport or airbase. These activities can distract pilots during take-off or landing. Airborne materials may also be ingested by aircraft engines. Such hazards may endanger lives and damage property in the air and on the ground.

Flying kites  

A popular recreational activity enjoyed by people of all ages, and can range from simple single-line kites to more complex stunt or power kites that can perform tricks or even lift a person off the ground.

Kite flying within 5km of an airport or airbase requires a permit.

Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing (also known as kiteboarding) is a water sport that combines elements of surfing, wakeboarding, and kite flying. 

Kitesurfing within 5km of an airport or airbase requires a permit.

Parasailing

Parasailing is a water sport where a person is attached to an open parachute and towed behind a powered watercraft. The lift keeps the person airborne above the water. 

Parasailing within 5km of an airport or airbase requires a permit.

Sky lanterns

Event organisers, marketing/PR agencies, hotels, schools, town councils and other organisations that want to put up sky lanterns must follow these rules: 

  1. All sky lanterns must be tethered to a fixed point, for example, a pole or weight.

  2. Sky lanterns must not be put up during the prohibited timings shown below. Beyond these timings, applications are still subject to assessment by relevant agencies.

    • Monday to Friday: 7am – 7pm

    • Saturday: 7am – 1pm

Note: The free release of sky lanterns (also commonly known as Kong Ming lanterns) is not allowed in Singapore as these lanterns can drift into aircraft flight paths.

Tethered balloons

Event organisers, marketing/PR agencies, hotels, schools, town councils and other organisations that want to put up tethered balloons must follow these rules: 

You must ensure that all tethered balloons are: 

  • tethered to a fixed point e.g. a pole or weight 

  • monitored at all times 

  • fitted with a mechanism that destroys the balloon should it break free of its tether

Permits for aerial activities 

These activities may require a permit if they pose risks to aviation safety.

Use SkySAFE to check where you can conduct your activity and apply for a permit.

Visit SkySAFE

When to submit an application

Submit your application on SkySAFE with complete information at least 7 working days (excludes Sat, Sun, and public holidays) before your proposed activity begins.

Contact information 

Air Navigation Services Policy Division
CAAS_ANSP@caas.gov.sg