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Drone Operation in Thailand: Regulations and Best Practices
Operating a drone in Thailand requires adherence to aviation laws and regulations to ensure safety and compliance. This guide summarizes the key legal framework, operational guidelines, and penalties associated with drone usage in Thailand.
1. Legal Framework
Primary Law: The Air Navigation Act, B.E. 2497 (1954)
Defines "aircraft" to include all air-supported machines, excluding:
Kites.
Balloons under 1 cubic meter.
Small toy aircraft.
Unmanned Aircraft (Drones):
Governed under Section 24 of the Act.
Drone operation requires permission from the Ministry of Transport and compliance with approved conditions.
Supporting Regulation: Ministry of Transport Announcement, B.E. 2558 (2015)
Details conditions for drone operation and permit requirements.
Specifies qualifications for operators:
Minimum age of 20 years.
No criminal record related to narcotics or customs violations.
Not deemed a threat to national security.
Registration Notes
Register drones online at www.caat.or.th/uav.
Registration is valid for 2 years and must be renewed upon expiration.
As of December 27, 2024, drone operators must pass a knowledge test to obtain a control license.
2. Pre-Flight Checklist
Before flying, ensure the following:
The drone and its systems are in good condition.
Permission has been obtained from the property owner.
The environment and airspace have been assessed for safety.
An emergency plan and liability insurance (minimum 1 million THB) are in place.
Maintenance is performed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Required Documents:
Drone registration certificate (or a copy).
Liability insurance covering third-party damages (minimum 1 million THB).
Essential Equipment for Flight:
Fire extinguisher.
3. In-Flight Guidelines
Follow these rules during operation:
Keep the drone within Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) and fly only during daylight hours.
Avoid:
Restricted or hazardous areas.
Flying above 90 meters.
Crowded spaces or private property.
Areas near airports (within 9 km) without prior authorization.
Unsafe distances—maintain at least 30 meters horizontally from people, vehicles, or structures.
Report any accidents to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) immediately.
4. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violations may result in:
Section 24 Violations:
Up to 1 year imprisonment or a 40,000 THB fine, or both.
Other Offenses:
Failure to comply with permit conditions may incur fines up to 50,000 THB.
Special Flight Permissions:
Night flights or operations in restricted areas require additional permissions.
Submit documents to uas_ur@caat.or.th, including:
Flight details and plans.
Drone pilot license.
Proof of insurance.
Authorization from the property owner.
Safety assessments and operational procedures.
Fly Safely and Legally
Understanding and complying with Thailand's drone laws is vital for a safe and enjoyable flying experience. Adhering to these guidelines not only protects you from penalties but also ensures the safety of others in the shared airspace.
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Source: CAAT/UAV | Edited by: Instructor Dang © 2024
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