Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, announced that unmanned aircraft transport will play a crucial role in generating revenue through the new economy. The emphasis is on ensuring that this mode of transport is safe and environmentally friendly by adhering to international safety standards. This requires updates in regulations to create a robust management system for small aircraft flights. He also highlighted concerns about border issues, noting that drones could be exploited by ill-intended users, and called for vigilance from officials and the public to monitor and control drone usage to prevent any negative impacts.
According to Thai News Agency, Colonel Sanphachai Huvanandana, President and CEO of National Telecom Public Company Limited, emphasized that NT is equipped with the necessary infrastructure and has partnered with international entities specializing in digital platforms for unmanned aircraft management. This collaboration enables precise and seamless flight management. Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), highlighted CAAT’s role in overseeing aviation safety and promoting aviation growth. He stated that promoting innovation and the development of aviation technology for unmanned aircraft or drones is a key mission of the agency. NT’s digital infrastructure and platform, supporting drone air transport, are essential to enhancing flight capabilities, facilitating efficient drone air traffic management, and ensuring the safety of the nation’s airspace.
NT and CAAT recently demonstrated drone operations. Skyler Solutions Co., Ltd. showcased drone operations to transport Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) from ICONSIAM across the Chao Phraya River to River City Bangkok. Similarly, Ama Marine Public Company Limited demonstrated the use of drones to transport medical supplies and medicines from Hat Toei Ngam to Koh Kai Tia in Chonburi Province. Additionally, Avilon Robotics Co., Ltd. demonstrated drone flights to transport consumer goods from Koh Samui to Koh Tan in Surat Thani Province, while Easy (2018) Co., Ltd. showcased drone flights for transporting agricultural produce from farms to sorting plants in Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province.
NT is well-positioned to support air logistics operators with its nationwide 700 MHz spectrum, fiber optic network, and secure cloud services. This infrastructure allows them to comply with regulations and expand their business operations as Thailand advances towards drone delivery services.