Bangkok Drone Laws 2025: 9 Must-Know Rules, New Updates & Shocking Penalties

by Marcin Frąckiewicz
in Drones, Law, Technology
on 28 August 2025

Key Facts

Mandatory Registration: All drones over 250 grams or equipped with a camera must be registered with both the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) before flight tatnews.org tatnews.org. Flying unregistered is illegal.
Recreational vs Commercial: Hobbyist and commercial pilots alike must follow Thailand’s drone laws. Commercial use carries additional requirements – operators need a drone pilot license and may require extra permits if engaging in business activities juslaws.com.
Insurance Required: Drone operators must hold third-party liability insurance with at least ฿1,000,000 coverage. Proof of insurance (in English, listing the pilot’s name and drone serial number) is required for CAAT registration tatnews.org fanclubthailand.co.uk.
Flight Restrictions: Drones may only be flown in daylight, within visual line-of-sight, and up to a 90 metre altitude ceiling (approx. 295 ft) unless special permission is obtained tatnews.org. Night flying and beyond-line-of-sight operations are prohibited without prior approval tatnews.org.
No-Fly Zones: It is forbidden to fly within 9 km of any airport or airfield, over crowds or gatherings, or near sensitive areas like government buildings, hospitals, and military sites without authorization tatnews.org tatnews.org. Maintain a minimum distance of 30 m from people and property (50 m for heavier drones 2–25 kg) at all times tatnews.org.
Heavy Penalties: Violating drone laws in Thailand can result in severe penalties. Fines range up to ฿100,000 and imprisonment up to 5 years for serious offenses like flying unregistered drones fanclubthailand.co.uk. Equipment may be confiscated, and on-the-spot fines are issued for dangerous flying or entering restricted airspace fanclubthailand.co.uk.
Governing Agencies: The CAAT regulates drone operations and pilot certification, while the NBTC handles owner and radio frequency registration tatnews.org. Both registrations are mandatory – registering with one agency alone is not sufficient tatnews.org.
Recent Updates: New regulations in 2024–2025 require all drone operators to obtain a CAAT drone pilot certificate by September 2025 en.vietnamplus.vn. The CAAT also launched a new UAS online portal (replacing its old system in mid-2025) for all drone registrations and flight approvals tatnews.org fanclubthailand.co.uk.
Tourist Advisory: Foreign visitors may bring drones into Thailand, but cannot fly until completing NBTC and CAAT registrations tatnews.org. Plan ahead – the process can take 2–3 weeks or more. Tourists must follow the same rules as locals, so prepare the required documents (passport, visa entry stamp, local address, insurance) and register within 30 days of arrival to stay legal feic.co.th.

Overview of Current Drone Laws in Thailand (Bangkok Focus)

Thailand enforces strict drone regulations nationwide, and these laws fully apply in Bangkok. In essence, drones are considered unmanned aircraft under Thai law and are subject to aviation safety rules. All drones must be registered and operated in compliance with national regulations – failure to do so can lead to fines, jail, or equipment confiscation tatnews.org. The legal framework is national (there are no separate city-level drone ordinances in Bangkok), but flying in Bangkok requires extra caution due to its dense urban environment and multiple sensitive sites.

Two authorities regulate drones in Thailand: the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). CAAT oversees air safety, operational rules, and pilot licensing, while NBTC handles the radio frequency licensing and owner registration aspects tatnews.org. In practical terms, anyone wishing to fly a drone in Thailand (including Bangkok) must navigate requirements from both agencies. For example, a drone hobbyist in Bangkok must register their drone’s radio frequency and their personal details with NBTC and separately register the drone and obtain pilot authorization from CAAT tatnews.org. Bringing a drone into Thailand is allowed for travelers, but it cannot be flown legally until both NBTC and CAAT registrations are completed tatnews.org.

Thailand’s drone laws have been shaped by safety, privacy, and security concerns. Authorities classify drones based on weight and capabilities, imposing stricter rules as the risk level increases. In Bangkok’s airspace – a congested area with two international airports and numerous critical infrastructures – enforcement is especially stringent. All drone pilots are expected to know and abide by the rules at all times to ensure public safety and national security. In summary, Thailand’s current drone laws (as applied in Bangkok) require registration of most drones, adherence to strict operational limits (daytime, line-of-sight, altitude, etc.), and respect for no-fly zones, with significant penalties in place for violations fanclubthailand.co.uk tatnews.org.

Distinction Between Recreational and Commercial Drone Use

Thai law makes no exception for recreational (“hobby”) drone pilots when it comes to the core requirements – registration, insurance, and basic flight rules apply equally to personal and commercial use. If your drone meets the criteria (e.g. over 250 g or has a camera), you must register with NBTC and CAAT whether you’re flying for fun or profit droneandslr.com. Hobbyist pilots need to obtain a CAAT drone operator certificate (pilot license) just like commercial operators, and they must be adults (the de facto minimum age to fly is 18) with no disqualifying criminal record fanclubthailand.co.uk juslaws.com. In short, owning a drone “just for travel photography” doesn’t exempt you from Thailand’s legal requirements – even as a recreational flyer you have to comply fully.

That said, commercial drone operations face some additional layers of regulation on top of the baseline rules. If you intend to use a drone for business purposes – for example, filming footage for commercial videos, conducting aerial surveys, or any activity where you earn income – you must still do the NBTC/CAAT registrations and obtain the standard pilot certificate, and you may need further authorization:

Commercial Operator Licensing: Commercial pilots are generally expected to obtain a drone aviation certificate (essentially a pilot license) from CAAT and, in some cases, a permit from the Ministry of Transport to operate a UAV for commercial purposes juslaws.com juslaws.com. (In practice, the CAAT’s pilot certification process covers much of this requirement as of 2025.)
Legitimate Business Use: The operator should be engaged in a legitimate business activity (e.g. media production, agriculture, inspections). Thailand may require commercial operators to hold a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate or similar, especially if offering drone services as a company juslaws.com.
Additional Oversight: Commercial flights might attract more scrutiny. Operators may need to file flight plans or obtain case-by-case permission for certain operations (for instance, filming in urban public areas could require coordination with local authorities). Also, drones over 25 kg (typically used commercially) involve special approval from the Ministry of Transport tatnews.org.

In essence, the distinction is that recreational users are subject to all the fundamental rules, whereas commercial users have to meet those same rules plus ensure they are properly licensed and authorized for business-related drone activities juslaws.com. The penalties for non-compliance (flying unregistered, etc.) are equally severe for hobbyists and professionals. However, a commercial operator flying without the proper certifications could face additional legal consequences such as business license violations.

Registration Requirements and Applicable Authorities (CAAT & NBTC)

Drone registration in Thailand is a two-step process involving two different agencies:

NBTC registration: The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission handles registering you (the owner/operator) and the drone’s radio equipment. This process ensures your drone’s remote control frequencies are licensed and tracked feic.co.th feic.co.th. NBTC registration is required for all drones with cameras or capable of recording, regardless of size or purpose fanclubthailand.co.uk. In fact, official guidance now suggests any drone, of any weight, that has a camera must be registered with NBTC fanclubthailand.co.uk. You must complete NBTC registration within 30 days of bringing a drone into Thailand or purchasing one locally, even if you don’t fly it immediately feic.co.th. The NBTC registration can be done online via the AnyRegis system or in person at an NBTC office (such as the headquarters in Bangkok or regional offices) feic.co.th fanclubthailand.co.uk. For NBTC, you’ll need to submit personal ID (passport and entry visa stamp for foreigners), proof of local address (e.g. hotel booking), and details of your drone (make, model, serial number, photos) feic.co.th. NBTC’s approval for foreign visitors is typically valid for the duration of your visa or entry permit (Thai nationals get up to 90 days per registration) feic.co.th.
CAAT registration: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand is responsible for airspace safety and pilot oversight. CAAT requires registration for drones that have cameras, weigh over 2 kg, or are heavy drones (above 25 kg) tatnews.org. In practice, this means most consumer drones (even small camera drones) must be registered with CAAT. The CAAT registration process covers both the drone itself and the drone pilot. Through CAAT, you will obtain a drone operator certificate (pilot license) upon meeting the requirements tatnews.org tatnews.org. Registration is done online on the CAAT UAS Portal fanclubthailand.co.uk. You’ll create an account, verify your identity (a Thai phone number/SIM is required to receive OTP codes for verification) tatnews.org, and submit details including drone information, your insurance proof, and identification. CAAT also administers an online knowledge test as part of registration – you must pass a multiple-choice exam on drone regulations and safety to receive your certificate tatnews.org. If you fail, you can retake it after 24 hours. Once approved, CAAT will issue a registration certificate and number for your drone and pilot license, valid for two years tatnews.org. You are required to mark your drone with the registration number (in a clearly visible manner, with a 3 mm or larger font for small drones) tatnews.org.

It’s crucial to understand that both NBTC and CAAT registrations are mandatory. Registering with only one does not legalize your drone. NBTC’s process legalizes the ownership and radio use, whereas CAAT’s process legalizes the flight operation tatnews.org. The two serve different legal purposes and you must complete both before taking to the skies in Bangkok or anywhere in Thailand tatnews.org.

Registration fees: NBTC registration is free, though in the past an administrative fee might have been applied (some sources mention an NBTC fee around 214 THB, but this can depend on the method or any updates) fanclubthailand.co.uk. CAAT registration is free of charge as well fanclubthailand.co.uk. However, obtaining the required insurance will be an out-of-pocket cost (insurance prices vary by drone weight and coverage; typical policies start around ฿750–1,600 for hobby drones) droneandslr.com droneandslr.com.

Processing time: NBTC registration can often be completed the same day if you go in person fanclubthailand.co.uk (or within a few days online). CAAT’s approval is slower – while the official timeline is 15 working days, it can take longer fanclubthailand.co.uk. It’s advised to start the registration well in advance of any planned flights. For foreigners, it’s wise to initiate the process before your trip if possible or immediately upon arrival (some travelers begin paperwork a few weeks prior and finish once they get a Thai SIM and arrive in-country) droneandslr.com droneandslr.com.

In summary, registration with NBTC and CAAT is a foundational legal requirement for drone use in Thailand. The NBTC ensures your drone’s transmissions are licensed, and the CAAT ensures you as a pilot are qualified and aware of the rules. By fulfilling both, you obtain legal clearance to fly your drone in Bangkok’s skies, provided you also stick to the operational rules discussed next.

Licensing, Insurance, and Flight Permission Rules

Drone Operator Licensing: When you register with CAAT, you are essentially applying for a drone pilot license (sometimes called a drone aviation certificate). As of recent regulatory updates, all drone operators must have this CAAT-issued certificate to fly legally en.vietnamplus.vn. Getting the certificate involves passing the CAAT’s online exam on drone regulations and safety practices tatnews.org. Once you pass and registration is approved, the CAAT will issue a digital certificate/license, which is valid for two years before renewal is needed tatnews.org. This license serves as evidence that you understand the rules and are qualified to operate a UAV. You should carry a copy (digital or print) of your pilot certificate when flying, in case authorities ask for it. Notably, September 1, 2025 is a key date: by that time, all drone pilots (Thai and foreign) are required to hold the CAAT drone certificate under the new rules en.vietnamplus.vn. This requirement was introduced to elevate safety standards and ensure everyone flying a drone has demonstrated basic knowledge.

Insurance: Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for drones that require CAAT registration. Thailand requires a minimum coverage of ฿1 million for any potential damage or injury your drone might cause tatnews.org. You must obtain an insurance policy and have at least the certificate of insurance before completing CAAT registration droneandslr.com. The insurance policy must list your full name and the drone’s serial number, and if you’re a foreigner the document should be in English (or have an English translation) so officials can verify it fanclubthailand.co.uk. Many local providers offer drone insurance (the CAAT website provides some guidance, and travelers have used Thai insurance companies or international policies that meet the Thai requirements). Without insurance, CAAT will not issue your registration approval. Insurance must remain valid; if your policy expires, your legal right to fly is essentially suspended until you renew coverage. Always carry proof of insurance when flying fanclubthailand.co.uk – in case of any incident or spot-check, you’ll need to show that you have the required coverage.

Flight permissions and notifications: Under normal circumstances, once you have your drone registered and licensed, you do not need to file a flight plan for every casual flight. You simply follow the standard rules (discussed in the next section) for where and how you can fly. However, certain operations do require advance permission from CAAT:

Special operations: If you plan to fly at night, above the standard altitude limit of 90 m, or in a restricted zone, you must obtain prior approval from authorities tatnews.org. CAAT has an online system (the UAS Portal) where you can submit requests for such operations. For example, a professional filming operation at night in Bangkok or a drone light show would need explicit CAAT authorization. The request usually must be made at least 3 days in advance of the flight, providing details like location, date/time, and purpose tatnews.org. In some cases, you also have to notify local police or the Anti-Drone Centre for certain areas like Bangkok (the Metropolitan Police’s Anti-Drone Centre can be emailed for coordination) tatnews.org.
Controlled airspace or sensitive areas: If your flight is near an airport or over sensitive locations, you may need special clearance. For instance, flying within the 9 km airport no-fly zone (if you have a justified need) would require permission from both CAAT and likely the airport authority. Flying near a royal palace, military base, or government compound would similarly need prior approval from the relevant security agency in addition to CAAT clearance.
Organized events: Commercial or large-scale drone activities (like an aerial show, research project, or mapping a wide area) often require notifying CAAT in advance, even if they don’t break any standard rules, just due to scale. It’s good practice to inform local authorities for any drone use that might draw public attention.

In August 2025, as a specific example, Thailand imposed temporary rules requiring all drone flights to be pre-notified due to security concerns (this was an extraordinary measure tied to border security issues) tatnews.org. During that period, pilots had to log flight details in the UAS Portal and email the police before flying anywhere. Such special restrictions illustrate that operators should stay alert to announcements – sometimes authorities will tighten rules temporarily.

Age and competency: Legally, drone operators should be adults. While one source indicates the pilot must be at least 20 years old with no drug or customs-related criminal history for license eligibility juslaws.com, official tourism guidance suggests a minimum age of 18 to fly even recreationally fanclubthailand.co.uk. In practice, if you are 18 or above and meet the other requirements, you can register and get the license. Minors are not allowed to fly drones unsupervised; do not hand the controls to someone under 18.

Finally, always have your documents on hand when operating: carry copies (physical or on your phone) of your NBTC registration, CAAT registration certificate, insurance, and a copy of the drone rules (in Thai and English) fanclubthailand.co.uk. If approached by police or aviation officials in Bangkok, being able to promptly show these will make any inspection go smoothly.

No-Fly Zones and Altitude Restrictions

Thailand’s drone regulations impose clear restrictions on where and how high you can fly. These are critical for a dense city like Bangkok:

Maximum altitude: 90 meters (295 ft) above ground is the legal altitude limit for drones tatnews.org fanclubthailand.co.uk. Flying higher than 90 m without special authorization is prohibited. This altitude ceiling helps keep drones away from manned aircraft corridors. If there’s a need to go above 90 m (for example, for a special survey), you must seek advance permission from CAAT tatnews.org.
Airports: Drones cannot fly within 9 km (5 nautical miles) of any airport or temporary airfield without explicit permission tatnews.org fanclubthailand.co.uk. In Bangkok, this is extremely important: both Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) have large 9 km exclusion zones around them. Essentially, large portions of the city near those airports are off-limits to drone flights. Always check your map – if you are anywhere in or near Bangkok and not sure of the distance, it’s safer to assume you might be in restricted airspace and refrain from flying. Helicopter pads and temporary airfields (like for events) also count.
Over people and urban areas: You must not fly over crowds or gatherings of people airsight.com fanclubthailand.co.uk. This includes events, protests, busy streets, or packed tourist sites. In a city like Bangkok, that effectively means you should avoid flying directly over any populated area. If you’re capturing cityscape shots, do it from a perimeter or above water (like the river), not above groups of people. Similarly, flights over congested urban areas are generally prohibited unless authorized tatnews.org. Practically, this means casual drone flights are not supposed to occur over downtown Bangkok or any heavily populated district without special clearance.
Sensitive locations: Government buildings, royal palaces, military facilities, police stations, and hospitals are examples of no-fly zones unless you have permission tatnews.org fanclubthailand.co.uk. These sites are spread throughout Bangkok (e.g. the Grand Palace, Government House, military bases, etc.), so you need to be very mindful of your surroundings. Flying a drone near a royal or government compound can lead to swift intervention by authorities. Always maintain a wide berth from these sensitive areas – if you plan a flight, research the area first to ensure no restricted site is nearby.
Horizontal distance from people/property: You must keep a safe distance from individuals and property not involved in the drone operation. Thai rules state a minimum distance of 30 meters for drones under 2 kg, and 50 meters for drones 2–25 kg tatnews.org. This means even if you’re not over people, you shouldn’t fly too close to bystanders or someone’s house, etc. In practical terms, if you’re flying a small drone in a park, stay at least 30 m away from any other visitors.
Line-of-sight: You must always fly within visual line of sight (VLOS) – you need to be able to see your drone with your own eyes at all times tatnews.org. Using binoculars or just first-person camera view doesn’t count. Bangkok’s urban landscape (tall buildings, etc.) can quickly block your line of sight, so be extra careful not to let the drone fly behind structures or too far away. Flying beyond line of sight or relying only on FPV goggles is illegal for normal operations tatnews.org.
Night and weather: Flying is allowed only during daylight hours and in good weather (no heavy rain, fog, or strong winds) tatnews.org. Night flying is banned without special permission tatnews.org. In Bangkok, that means roughly between 6:00 am and 6:00 pm are your flying window (since sunset and sunrise times hover around 6 o’clock in the tropics). If you must do night operations (for instance, a light show or emergency response), you’d need to go through an approval process beforehand tatnews.org.
Restricted airspace: Thailand publishes restricted zones in its Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP). These include certain border areas, sensitive infrastructure, and sometimes temporary restrictions for events tatnews.org. Recently, some border provinces and districts under martial law were completely off-limits to drones tatnews.org. While Bangkok is not usually subject to martial law, always be aware of any temporary security restrictions. For example, large international events or royal ceremonies in Bangkok could trigger temporary drone no-fly zones for security reasons (which would be announced by CAAT or the government).

To stay safe and legal, always do a pre-flight check: review the CAAT’s guidelines or use their UAS Portal map to see if your intended area is clear to fly. Bangkok has a lot of red zones on the map, so plan carefully. Also, always yield to manned aircraft – if a helicopter or low-flying aircraft is nearby, you must give way and land your drone. Carrying or dropping any hazardous materials from a drone is strictly forbidden tatnews.org – obviously no weaponizing or anything that could pose a danger.

By respecting these no-fly zones and altitude rules, you significantly reduce the risk of accidents and legal trouble. Many of these restrictions (like airport buffers and crowd overflight bans) are standard internationally, but some (like the 90 m limit) may be stricter than in other countries, so take note if you’re an experienced pilot from abroad.

Penalties for Violations

Thailand imposes strict penalties for those who flout its drone regulations. Authorities have made examples of violators in the past to underscore that drone safety and security are taken seriously. Here are the potential consequences if you violate drone laws in Bangkok (or anywhere in Thailand):

Flying without registration: Operating an unregistered drone is a serious offense. Under Thai law (Section 23 of the Radio Communications Act), failure to register your drone’s radio equipment can lead to a fine of up to ฿100,000 and/or up to 5 years imprisonment airsight.com fanclubthailand.co.uk. These harsh penalties were publicized especially when the drone rules were first introduced – the government set deadlines for drone owners to register or face these consequences airsight.com. In practice, penalties might vary (there’s a range, with fines possibly starting around ฿40,000 and jail from 1 year for lesser violations), but the maximum is quite high fanclubthailand.co.uk.
Flying in restricted areas or dangerously: If you fly in a no-fly zone (e.g. near an airport or over a crowd) or in a manner that endangers others, you could face on-the-spot fines and other charges fanclubthailand.co.uk. The exact fine can depend on the situation and which rule is broken. For instance, flying too close to people or property could be treated as recklessness. Expect that authorities will confiscate your drone if you’re caught in a serious violation (e.g., flying over a secure government compound without permission).
Privacy violations: Using a drone to infringe on someone’s privacy (spying into homes, etc.) can lead to legal action under privacy and data laws. While the drone laws don’t list a specific penalty for privacy invasion, Thailand has strict anti-voyeurism and personal data laws. You could be fined or sued if your drone camera is used inappropriately.
Unlicensed commercial operation: If you are caught conducting commercial drone activities (like filming for a commercial project or surveying for a company) without the proper authorizations, you could face additional penalties related to operating without a license. This might involve fines or sanctions by CAAT, and if you’re a foreigner, potentially visa repercussions (working or earning income without proper permits).
Customs and import violations: Bringing in a high-end drone without declaring it (for example, if it’s above certain value thresholds) could run afoul of customs regulations. Also, as noted in Thai law, importing a drone equipped with a camera without NBTC permission can trigger the same penalties (up to ฿100,000/5 years) because it’s treated similarly to operating unregistered juslaws.com juslaws.com. This is more relevant to businesses importing drones, but a tourist bringing a very large professional drone might be questioned by customs.
Equipment confiscation: In many cases, enforcement may start with confiscation. Your drone and accessories can be seized on the spot if you’re caught violating rules. Getting them back may be a lengthy or impossible process, especially if legal charges are filed.

Thai authorities have urged both locals and tourists to report illegal drone use tatnews.org tatnews.org. There are hotlines and emails (for CAAT and police) where people can send reports of suspicious or unlawful drone flights. This means that if you break the rules, it might not even require a police officer witnessing it firsthand – a concerned citizen could report you, and authorities might track you down later (since drone registration links your drone serial and your identity).

Realistically, minor infractions (like unknowingly flying a bit above altitude or not keeping 30 m distance) might get you a warning if no harm was done. But any major infraction or blatant disregard of the rules can lead to tough penalties. Several foreign tourists in the past have been detained or fined for flying drones in prohibited areas (for example, near airports or over restricted zones) to make it clear that “I didn’t know the law” is not a valid excuse.

In summary, the penalties range from fines (tens of thousands of baht) and confiscation, up to imprisonment for severe cases fanclubthailand.co.uk. Thai law enforcement does have the power to throw offenders in jail for drone violations – although that would typically be reserved for egregious cases (like a drone causing a danger to an aircraft or being used in a crime). The bottom line: it’s simply not worth the risk to ignore the drone laws. Compliance is far easier than facing a Thai court case or hefty fine.

Legal Framework and Governing Agencies

Thailand’s drone regulations derive from several laws and official directives, implemented by the country’s aviation and telecommunications authorities:

Civil Aviation Act / Air Navigation Act: Drones are regulated under Thailand’s aviation laws. The primary law is the Air Navigation Act, B.E. 2497 (1954), which has been amended multiple times to incorporate new aviation regulations. In recent years, the government recognized the need to update this law to specifically address drones (UAVs). In fact, in 2025 the Ministry of Transport directed CAAT to revise the Air Navigation Act to include comprehensive drone provisions in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards en.vietnamplus.vn. This forthcoming amendment will introduce dozens of new measures specific to unmanned aircraft en.vietnamplus.vn. CAAT had previously issued Announcements or Regulations under the existing law (for example, back in 2015 and 2017, rules came out detailing weight thresholds, no-fly zones, etc.). Those rules form the basis of today’s requirements (like the 2 kg and camera registration rule, 25 kg heavy drone rule, altitude limit, etc.), and they are enforced as ministerial regulations or CAAT directives.
NBTC and the Radio Communications Act: The requirement to register drones with NBTC comes from the Radio Communications Act, B.E. 2498 (1955) and related NBTC notifications. Essentially, any device that emits radio frequency (which includes drone controllers and video transmitters) must be licensed. Section 23 of this Act is what sets the penalties for unlicensed radio equipment (hence the stiff ฿100k/5-year penalty for unregistered drones) airsight.com. NBTC has issued specific guidelines for drones (sometimes called “unmanned aircraft radio equipment registration”). This is why even if a drone is tiny but has a camera transmitting a signal, it falls under NBTC’s purview. NBTC’s implementation is relatively straightforward: fill out a form (now available online) and register the device to get a radio permit.
Implementing agencies:
- The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is the key agency for drone regulation. It is under the Ministry of Transport and is responsible for all civil aviation, including drones. CAAT issues the rules for drone operations, handles the registration and certification of drones and pilots, and enforces compliance. They have an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) division that specifically oversees drones. CAAT also coordinates with security agencies for matters like no-fly zones and temporary flight restrictions tatnews.org.
- The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is an independent regulator for communications. For drones, NBTC’s role is narrower: it maintains a registry of drone owners and radio frequencies to prevent interference. NBTC can enforce the radio laws (they have inspectors that ensure devices broadcasting in Thailand are properly licensed). In context, if someone operates a drone without NBTC registration, NBTC could initiate legal action under the radio law.
Other relevant bodies: The Thai Ministry of Transport is involved at a high level (they oversee CAAT). For example, drones over 25 kg require Ministry of Transport approval (in practice, CAAT facilitates this) tatnews.org. The Ministry of Defense and Royal Thai Air Force are involved in designating restricted airspace (military zones etc.). Police and local authorities assist in enforcement on the ground. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), while not a regulator, often communicates drone rules to tourists (as we saw via TAT News and Fan Club Thailand advisories).

Thailand is also aligning its drone regulations with international standards. The ongoing updates aim to harmonize with ICAO and potentially European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) frameworks en.vietnamplus.vn. This could mean in the future, classification of drones by risk categories (like “open”, “specific”, “certified” categories used in Europe) and requirements like remote identification might be introduced. In 2023, CAAT engaged consultants (like CAA International from the UK) to help draft new drone regulations in line with global best practices caainternational.com.

For now, the legal framework remains grounded in the national laws mentioned. To recap the key legal points:

The Air Navigation Act (and CAAT’s regulations under it) gives authority to mandate pilot licensing, set flight rules (altitude, zones, etc.), and require drone registration with CAAT.
The Radio Comm Act (and NBTC rules) gives authority to require equipment registration and penalize non-compliance on the communications side.

Both CAAT and NBTC have public websites and portals where rules are published (mostly in Thai, with some summaries in English). When flying in Bangkok, you are under the jurisdiction of these agencies. If something goes wrong – say your drone crashes into property or is flying where it shouldn’t – expect either CAAT or NBTC (or the police on their behalf) to get involved based on which rules were broken.

Updates or Changes to Laws in the Past 12–24 Months

The drone law landscape in Thailand has seen significant updates in the last couple of years (2024–2025) as authorities modernize regulations and respond to new challenges. Here are the major recent changes and developments:

Mandatory Drone Pilot Certificates (2025): A crucial update is the requirement that all drone operators obtain a CAAT drone aviation certificate (pilot license) by September 1, 2025 en.vietnamplus.vn. This was part of a regulatory push to ensure every pilot has proven their knowledge. Prior to this, hobbyists technically needed to register but the “pilot license” concept was not strictly enforced for all. Now it is explicit: if you want to fly a drone in Thailand after late 2025, you must have passed the CAAT exam and hold the certificate. CAAT gave a grace period for existing drone flyers to comply by that date.
New CAAT UAS Portal and Registration System: In June 2025, CAAT shut down its legacy drone registration website (previously at uav.caat.or.th) and fully transitioned to a new UAS Portal tatnews.org fanclubthailand.co.uk. This new system integrates drone and pilot registration, test-taking, and flight authorization requests in one platform. The switch aimed to streamline user experience and centralize data. Any drone registrations from the old system had to be downloaded and moved because after June 30, 2025 the old site became inaccessible tatnews.org. Users were urged to save their old certificates and then use the new portal for renewals. This changeover may have caused some temporary confusion, but it’s a significant modernization of how Thailand manages drone ops.
Accommodation of Heavy Drones (25+ kg): Thailand updated its rules to accommodate large drones (over 25 kg) in industrial and commercial use. Effective September 1, 2024, CAAT amended regulations to allow drones heavier than 25 kg to operate with proper approvals en.vietnamplus.vn. This was a nod to growing applications like agricultural spraying drones and delivery drones. Before, the law basically forbade drones >25 kg unless special Ministerial permission was granted. Now there is a clearer path for these heavy UAVs to be registered and used, indicating Thailand’s willingness to integrate drones into industry under oversight.
Drone Delivery Trials in Bangkok: In mid-2025, CAAT announced pilot projects for drone delivery services in Bangkok en.vietnamplus.vn. For instance, a trial route was set to operate across the Chao Phraya River in downtown Bangkok (Bang Rak to Iconsiam) en.vietnamplus.vn. While not a law change per se, this is an important development – it shows regulators are actively exploring expanded drone use in urban areas. These trials operate under controlled conditions and could pave the way for future regulations on autonomous drone operations in cities.
Temporary Security Restrictions (2023–2025): In late 2023 and again in mid-2025, Thailand issued temporary nationwide drone bans due to security situations. Notably in July 2025, amid border tensions, all civilian drone flights were temporarily banned by government order fanclubthailand.co.uk. This ban was partially lifted on August 16, 2025 with strict conditions through the end of that month tatnews.org. Such measures, though not permanent law changes, highlight how drone usage can be curtailed in special circumstances. It serves as a reminder that pilots should always check for any current NOTAMs or CAAT announcements about drones, especially during sensitive periods (e.g., elections, major events, or security incidents).
Enforcement and Registration Drive: Over the past two years, Thai authorities have ramped up efforts to get unregistered drones into compliance. Statistics as of 2025 showed about 60,000 people had registered as drone operators, but an estimated 20,000 drones were still unregistered en.vietnamplus.vn. The new requirement for pilot certificates and continued publicity suggests an ongoing crackdown on unregistered or illegal drone operations. Expect enforcement to increase as deadlines like the September 2025 certificate mandate hit.
Future regulatory outlook: Thailand engaged international consultants in drafting more comprehensive drone regulations aligned with European standards (this was reported as a project with UK CAAi in 2024) caainternational.com. This could mean that in the near future (2025–2026), we might see new categories of operation defined, possible introduction of drone classes and remote ID requirements, and clearer frameworks for things like drone insurance and training organizations. Keep an eye out for new CAAT notifications or amendments to laws as Thailand continues to update its drone policy.

In summary, the last 12–24 months brought stricter enforcement and new requirements (pilot licensing), better infrastructure for compliance (online portals), and opening up of new drone activities (heavy drone usage, delivery tests). The regulatory environment is evolving quickly, so it’s essential for drone users to stay updated via CAAT announcements or trusted news sources. What was permissible or sufficient a couple of years ago might no longer be so today, given these recent changes.

Advice for Tourists and Foreign Drone Operators

Flying a drone in Bangkok (or anywhere in Thailand) as a foreign visitor requires careful preparation. Here are some practical tips and advice to ensure you stay within the law and have a smooth experience:

Plan Ahead and Allow Time: Start the registration process well before your trip if possible. Since CAAT approval can take up to 15 days or more fanclubthailand.co.uk, a short-term tourist (e.g. on a 2-week holiday) might struggle to get fully registered in time if they wait until arrival. Ideally, initiate contact with an insurance provider and gather the needed documents a few weeks in advance. Some travelers even begin the online registration steps before they fly to Thailand, then complete final steps (like obtaining the Thai SIM for OTP verification) once on the ground. If your vacation is very short and you cannot allocate time for registration, consider leaving the drone at home – flying unregistered is not worth the legal risk.
Have the Required Documents Ready: To register your drone as a foreigner, you will need: a copy of your passport (with Thai entry stamp), an address in Thailand (hotel booking receipt is usually fine) feic.co.th, your drone’s details (make, model, serial number, clear photos of the drone and controller) feic.co.th, and your insurance certificate. Make sure you purchase a compliant insurance policy before you try to register – the policy must cover the required liability amount and should list your name and drone serial number fanclubthailand.co.uk. Keep both digital and physical copies of all these documents.
Use Official Portals or Reputable Services: Register yourself via the official NBTC and CAAT websites (links: NBTC AnyRegis and CAAT UAS Portal) fanclubthailand.co.uk fanclubthailand.co.uk. These have English interfaces and instructions. Be prepared for some technical hiccups – users have reported the CAAT portal can be tricky, so be patient and thorough when filling in info fanclubthailand.co.uk. If you find the process daunting, there are licensed Thai companies that offer drone registration assistance (for a fee). For example, some insurance brokers will handle your NBTC paperwork and guide you through CAAT if you buy their insurance feic.co.th. Using such services can simplify things if you’re short on time or uneasy navigating Thai websites.
Obey Customs and Import Rules: Generally, personal drones are allowed in without special import permits, but if you’re carrying professional-grade equipment, declare it if asked. For very high-end drones or large quantities (which most tourists won’t have), there might be import considerations. Typically, one personal drone isn’t an issue at customs, but ensure its batteries are carried in cabin luggage (as per airline rules) and that you’ve removed them if the airline requires it for safety fanclubthailand.co.uk. Check your airline’s policy for lithium batteries and pack accordingly (usually carry-on only, and tape the contacts or use a Lipo-safe bag).
Learn and Follow Local Etiquette and Rules: Beyond the written laws, be mindful of cultural and privacy aspects. For instance, avoid flying over temples or religious sites without permission – it’s both illegal (usually these are sensitive areas) and disrespectful if done carelessly. National parks require permission from park authorities to fly (drones are often banned in national parks unless explicitly allowed) fanclubthailand.co.uk. Always ask if you’re unsure – for example, if you want to fly at a resort or private property, get the owner’s permission first fanclubthailand.co.uk.
Stay Updated During Your Trip: Situations can change. As noted, there have been temporary bans and new rules issued on short notice. Keep an eye on the news or TAT updates while in Thailand. Your hotel or local contacts might also be aware if any drone restrictions pop up. It’s a good idea to check the CAAT or TAT News website for any recent announcements about drone flying before you launch.
Carry Proof of Compliance: When you go out to fly, bring copies of your registration certificates (NBTC and CAAT), your insurance, and your passport/visa. Having these on hand can quickly satisfy any police or official inquiry fanclubthailand.co.uk. English may not be understood by every local officer, so consider also having the Thai-language printouts of the email confirmations or relevant pages (the NBTC certificate might be in Thai). The Fan Club Thailand site even suggests carrying a copy of the rules in Thai to show you know them fanclubthailand.co.uk. This can be reassuring to any officials who approach you.
Fly Responsibly and Discreetly: As a visitor, it’s wise to be extra cautious. Choose open areas and times when your drone will attract less attention (early morning is often good – fewer people around and still daylight). Avoid flying over people or congested areas, not just because it’s illegal, but it will also draw unwanted attention. Remember that in Bangkok, there’s heightened sensitivity around security – a drone seen near a sensitive location could prompt a swift security response. So plan your shots carefully and keep your drone within safe boundaries.
Know Emergency Contacts: In case something goes wrong – say your drone crashes or is lost – you might need to report it. The CAAT can be contacted (they have a hotline and email for incidents tatnews.org), and the local police should be notified if, for example, your drone injures someone or damages property. Also, if your drone flies away or you lose control in a sensitive area, report it immediately rather than waiting, to demonstrate responsibility.
Consider Drone Insurance Travel Benefits: Besides the mandatory liability insurance, you might want coverage for your own drone (theft, damage, etc.) especially when traveling. Some travel insurances or drone-specific insurances can cover accidents (to your equipment). This isn’t a legal requirement, but for peace of mind it’s something to think about.

Above all, respect the laws and the local community. Thailand welcomes drone enthusiasts – the authorities understand the appeal of capturing the country’s beauty from above – which is why they haven’t banned drones outright but instead set up a framework to manage them. By following that framework diligently, you ensure you won’t become the story of a tourist fined or arrested for a drone mishap. Enjoy flying in Bangkok responsibly: get your paperwork in order, stick to the rules, and you’ll be able to capture amazing aerial footage without any legal troubles.

Sources: Official guidelines from the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thai regulators were used to compile this report, including the TAT Newsroom’s Drone Flying Guide tatnews.org tatnews.org, the Fan Club Thailand advisory for tourists fanclubthailand.co.uk fanclubthailand.co.uk, and statements from the CAAT and NBTC. Recent news on regulatory changes was referenced from VietnamPlus (VNA) en.vietnamplus.vn and other credible outlets to ensure the information is up-to-date as of 2025. Always consult the latest official sources before flying, as regulations can evolve.

Tags: Bangkok, Drone Laws, regulations