Drone Flights Permitted Nationwide Under Strict Rules
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has extended the nationwide allowance for drone operations under Notice No. 6, effective from 16 to 30 September 2025.
This new directive replaces the previous order, which expired on 15 September, and maintains Thailand’s strict operational conditions for all unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The temporary extension follows heightened national security measures in response to the Thai–Cambodian border situation. Drone operations remain permitted throughout Thailand, except in specific restricted areas.
No-Fly Zones in Thailand
While drones are generally permitted nationwide, operations are prohibited in the following areas:
- Five border provinces under martial law: Sa Kaeo, Buri Ram, Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani
- Sattahip District (Chon Buri), Mueang District (Rayong), Phayuha Khiri District (Nakhon Sawan), and Mueang District (Ratchaburi)
- Within a radius of nine kilometres from all airports and airstrips, including Lop Buri (Khok Kathiam) and Prachuap Khiri Khan airports
- Any other zones designated by national security agencies
Flights are allowed only between 06.00 and 18.00 hrs and must remain below 90 metres in altitude unless prior authorisation is granted.
Night operations are prohibited between 00.01 and 04.00 hrs.
All operators are required to register both their drone and pilot licence with CAAT and submit flight plans—including area, date, time, and purpose—at least three days in advance through the CAAT UAS Portal (uasportal.caat.or.th).
Flight notifications must also be sent to the Anti-Drone Centre, Metropolitan Police Bureau, via antidrone.police@gmail.com.
Government agencies such as the military, police, customs, and agriculture departments may conduct drone operations under their legal authority. However, operations in restricted zones by non-security agencies must be reported in advance through the UAS Portal.
Reporting Unlawful Drone Activity
Members of the public can report illegal drone use by providing the date, time, location, and any photo or video evidence to the following authorities:
- CAAT – Unmanned Aircraft Standards Division
Tel: +66 2 568 8851 | Email: uas_us@caat.or.th - Anti-Drone Centre, Metropolitan Police Bureau
Tel: +66 2 126 7846 | Email: antidrone.police@gmail.com - Local security units, including nearby police stations or military bases
CAAT emphasises that these rules are designed to balance national security and public safety with the growing needs of commercial and recreational drone users. The UAS Portal continues to be updated to improve speed, accessibility, and convenience for operators.
Registration Requirements for Tourists
Foreign visitors may bring drones into Thailand but cannot operate them until they are fully registered with two separate agencies:
- National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) – responsible for drone ownership and radio frequency registration via anyregis.nbtc.go.th
- Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) – responsible for drone and pilot registration, certification, and operational approval via uasportal.caat.or.th
Registration with both agencies is mandatory. Submitting to only one authority does not permit legal drone operation in Thailand.
Drones That Require Registration
- All drones, regardless of use or weight, must be registered with the NBTC.
- CAAT registration is required for:
- Drones equipped with cameras or recording devices
- Drones weighing more than 2 kilograms but under 25 kilograms
- Drones weighing over 25 kilograms, which also require written approval from the Minister of Transport
Pre-Flight Certification and Insurance
Before operating a drone in Thailand, all operators are encouraged to complete the CAAT online knowledge test via the UAS Portal to ensure familiarity with local airspace regulations.
Operators must also obtain third-party liability insurance with a minimum coverage of one million Thai Baht. Insurance can be arranged locally or through an international provider.
A Thai SIM card is required to complete online registration. Once registered, users will verify their identity via a one-time password (OTP) and upload documentation for both the drone and operator.
The Drone Pilot Certificate—issued upon passing the online test—is valid for two years. The registration number must be clearly visible on the drone body:
- Minimum font size 3 mm for drones under 25 kg
- Minimum font size 25 mm for drones over 25 kg
System Update: Legacy Website Closure
The CAAT has announced that its former registration website, uav.caat.or.th, will be permanently deactivated on 30 June 2025.
After this date, all registration and certification processes will be conducted exclusively through the UAS Portal.
Operators who previously registered via the old system are advised to download and securely store their registration documents before the cutoff date.
General Drone Flight Rules in Thailand
- Drone operations must not endanger life, property, or public peace.
- Flights over populated areas, crowds, or near government buildings, hospitals, or military zones are prohibited without permission.
- Drones must always remain within the operator’s visual line of sight; FPV-only navigation is not permitted.
- Flying through cloud cover or transporting hazardous materials is strictly forbidden.
- Maintain minimum safe distances:
- 30 metres for drones under 2 kg
- 50 metres for drones between 2 and 25 kg
- Any drone-related incident must be reported immediately to CAAT at uav@caat.or.th.
- Special flight permissions, including night operations, altitude above 90 metres, or restricted area entry, must be requested in writing via uas_u@caat.or.th.
Contact Information
Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT)
222 Vibhavadi Rangsit Soi 28, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 568 8851 | Email: uav@caat.or.th
Website: www.caat.or.th | Drone Portal: uasportal.caat.or.th
National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC)
87 Phaholyothin Soi 8, Samsen Nai, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 670 8888 | Call Center: 1200 (within Thailand)
Website: www.nbtc.go.th | Drone Portal: anyregis.nbtc.go.th
Anti-Drone Centre, Metropolitan Police Bureau
Tel: +66 2 126 7846 | Email: antidrone.police@gmail.com
Final Note for Visitors
Thailand welcomes responsible drone users who comply with national aviation laws.
Proper registration, insurance coverage, and adherence to CAAT flight guidelines ensure a safe and lawful experience for both operators and the public.
Visitors are encouraged to review current regulations carefully and to use Thailand’s natural and cultural beauty as a backdrop for safe and responsible drone photography.