CAAM: Don't be alarmed by low-flying aircraft over Sepang

KUALA LUMPUR: The public has been advised not to be alarmed by low-flying aircraft over the Sepang International Circuit and surrounding areas from tomorrow to Sunday in conjunction with the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Malaysia.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) said the operations would take place between 2pm and 3pm on the scheduled dates, with aircraft expected to fly at lower altitudes than usual.

"Operations have been coordinated with the relevant authorities and will be conducted in accordance with applicable safety requirements," it said in a statement.

CAAM also reminded drone operators that unauthorised flights are prohibited in the affected airspace, warning that drones pose a serious risk to low-flying aircraft and people on the ground.

"Drone operators must obtain the necessary authorisation before conducting any flight, while those operating without authorisation could face investigation and enforcement action under the Civil Aviation Regulations 2016 and other applicable laws.

"The public and drone operators are advised to comply with the restrictions and cooperate with the relevant authorities to ensure the safe conduct of the aircraft operations," it said.

Earlier, CAAM deputy chief executive officer Zainul Abidin Maslan said a low-level flypast by a Gulf Air Boeing 787 Dreamliner was expected to wow crowds at the race.

Zainul said the flypast had been coordinated between CAAM's air traffic control centre and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) control tower.