Bangkok: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued Announcement No. 8, prohibiting the operation or launching of unmanned aircraft (drones) in certain areas due to concerns over national security related to the Thai-Cambodian border situation. The ban remains in effect in specific border provinces and security areas, while it has been lifted in Sattahip District, Chonburi Province, Mueang Rayong District, Rayong Province, Phayuha Khiri District, Nakhon Sawan Province, and Mueang Ratchaburi District, Ratchaburi Province. This restriction is set to last until October 31, 2025, or until further notice.
According to Thai News Agency, the areas where drone flights are still strictly prohibited include five border provinces that have declared martial law or have ground troops: Sa Kaeo, Buriram, Sisaket, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani. Additionally, the ban covers a radius of 9 kilometers around a designated airport and other areas specifically announced by security agencies.
The CAAT has stipulated conditions for drone flights, requiring users to register their drones and operators with the CAAT completely and correctly. Requests for permission must be submitted at least three days in advance via the UAS Portal system, and the Unmanned Aircraft Control and Prevention Center must be notified via email. Flights are allowed between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM, with operations outside these hours requiring special permission. However, flights are prohibited between 12:01 AM and 4:00 AM under all circumstances.
Drones operated by the military, police, customs, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Intelligence Agency are allowed to function under their authority. However, those operated by customs and the ministries must notify the CAAT in advance via email.
The CAAT stated that the relaxation of some restrictions was made following a close assessment of the situation in collaboration with security agencies. They noted that the situation on the Thai-Cambodian border has eased sufficiently to permit civilian drone operations, albeit under strict conditions. This approach aims to balance the facilitation of public and business activities with the need to prioritize national security, public safety, and the effective oversight of unmanned aerial vehicles.