Preparations for the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games, scheduled to take place across multiple Dominican locations in 2026, have entered a key security phase, with the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC) implementing a strict prohibition on unapproved drone operations around all official competition sites. The regulatory move comes amid widespread security concerns that center on protecting participating athletes, official delegations, attending spectators, and maintaining the integrity of routine civil air operations in the host regions.
In an official statement released by the agency, IDAC Director General Igor Rodríguez Durán emphasized a clear call for all unmanned aircraft system (UAS) operators to strictly adhere to the terms of Dominican Aeronautical Regulation 107 (RAD 107), the national legislative framework that governs all drone activity across the Dominican Republic.
The ban, which was formally requested by the Games’ local organizing committee as a core component of the event’s comprehensive overall security strategy, covers a broad geographic swathe of host locations. This includes the iconic Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center in the capital, Parque del Este, and all dedicated sports facilities across Greater Santo Domingo, Boca Chica, Baní, San Cristóbal, Bonao, Santiago, Puerto Plata, and the major tourist hub of Punta Cana.
Under the new restrictions, any legitimate drone operation within these restricted zones will only be permitted following formal prior approval from IDAC, alongside close coordination with the lead security agencies tasked with overseeing the 2026 Games. The regulatory body confirmed it is currently collaborating closely with national and local law enforcement and security partners to roll out enhanced detection measures designed to quickly identify and respond to any unauthorized drone activity in restricted zones.
IDAC also issued a clear warning that any individuals or groups found violating the ban will face formal administrative sanctions as well as other potential legal penalties under existing Dominican aviation law. To wrap up the announcement, the agency issued a public call for all Dominican residents and visiting tourists to respect the flight restrictions, and contribute to the efforts that will enable the safe, secure, and successful staging of this major regional sporting event.