Hot air balloons load passengers in Vangvieng.

Minister orders safety checks on hot air balloons

The Ministry of Public Works and Transport has called for closer supervision of the hot air balloon and paramotor services that have become increasingly popular with tourists in Vangvieng.
Addressing a meeting of the Department of Public Works and Transport in Vientiane province, the transport minister Mr Leklay Sivilay said these services must meet stringent safety rules.
He ordered immediate inspections of all the equipment used in the operation of hot air balloons and paramotors, with operators required to meet rigorous standards and ensure full registration of their apparatus.
The order is intended to ensure the safety of people using these services and reinforce confidence in Laos’ growing tourism industry.
Mr Leklay stressed the need for compliance with the law to improve operations and governance across all sectors of the ministry. Operational efficiency is to be enhanced through clearer role definitions and improved working methods, with staff expected to act professionally in all their duties.
At the same time, he called for officials to build “strong, transparent and firm” organisational work units, while fostering sound leadership and encouraging a spirit of dedication and sacrifice.
In terms of personnel development, the Ministry will formulate human resource development plans, including ongoing training, regular performance evaluations, and structured succession planning to prepare future leaders.
Mr Leklay also stressed the importance of internal inspections across the ministry, noting that the early detection and resolution of issues is fundamental to effective management.
In addition, he called for infrastructure development to be closely monitored, including expressways and railways. Priority will be given to the repair of key national and local roads, particularly those serving production areas and tourist hotspots. Bridge maintenance and the strict enforcement of lorry weight limits will also be stepped up.
Urban planning authorities were instructed to team up with ministries and specialist institutions to create modern master plans that ensure orderly and aesthetically pleasing urban development, in strict compliance with the planning regulations.
With regard to water resource management and transport, sources of water will be more strongly protected. Steps will be taken to tackle riverbank erosion, ensure the registration of all watercraft, and regulate sand and gravel extraction.
Additionally, the Ministry will strengthen efforts to protect critical infrastructure, especially expressways and railways, from vandalism and theft. Plans are also in place to upgrade international border crossings and improve the management of weighing stations at borders.
Mr Leklay said these sweeping reforms are designed to deliver a “breakthrough” in the Ministry’s performance, supporting Laos’ broader development objectives while ensuring that safety, sustainability, and efficiency remain at the forefront of all operations.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest UpdateApril 6, 2026)