Bangkok: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued an urgent announcement prohibiting the flying or launching of all types of unmanned aircraft (drones) in areas nationwide, effective from July 30 to August 15, 2025, or until further notice.

According to Thai News Agency, this announcement is made to prevent national security and safety risks from the unrest along the Thai-Cambodian border, which may impact the operations of security officials in various areas. Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, revealed that the ban on drones is in line with relevant laws and announcements, which grant the CAAT authority to suspend the use of unmanned aircraft during periods that could affect national peace and security.

He emphasized that violators will be subject to penalties under the Aviation Act of 1954 and its amendments, which may include imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Military officials also have the authority to destroy aircraft if they deem them a threat to national security.

If anyone sees or knows that a drone has been forced or released in violation of this announcement, they are urged to report the information, including the date, time, location of the sighting, the characteristics of the drone, and photographs or video clips (if any) to the responsible agency as soon as possible through specified channels.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is requesting the public’s cooperation in refraining from using any type of drone during this period. This is to maintain national security and fully support the missions of border officials.