How to register your drone in Thailand

Updated on 4/01/2018 with information that the deadline for registering a radio controlled device with NBTC is 9 January 2018. After that, you face up to five years in prison for non compliance.

If you intend to fly a drone in Thailand, whether as a hobby or for commercial reasons, you have to by law register your drone first. If you don’t you could face a fine of up to 100,000 Baht or even up to five years in prison. They are serious about this, so before you fly, make sure you register your drone with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). In addition, if your drone has a camera (any weight) or weighs over two kilos then you need to obtain insurance and get permission to fly from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). Their fine for not doing this is up to 40,000 Baht and up to one year in prison. Before you ask, if you have a toy drone, for example weighing less than 250g, then the NBTC or CAAT are not interested. However, they have specifically said that the small DJI Spark needs to be registered.

Scroll down for how to register your drone and for links to download the forms.

When I first started flying drones in Thailand I hardly ever saw any other drone pilots. I also didn’t face any problems about where I could fly. Security guards would come over if they saw me flying, not because it was illegal, but because they were curious to see the live pictures from above. Sadly, those days are long gone. Security guards are more likely to chase you away or sometimes you will see signs like the one above which prohibits the flying of drones. This is not necessarily because of any new laws, it is mainly because just about everyone decided to get a drone for Christmas. Now, with so many people flying, it is no longer the novelty and people, sometimes quite rightly, are fed up with the buzzing sound of the drones flying low over their heads.

When I attend an event these days, there are usually four or five drones flying. And quite honestly, some of these pilots are very dangerous. They are not keeping their drones in line of sight. They are just watching their screens. Which means the possibility of a collision is quite high. I have seen them go down before, either crashing into buildings, trees and power lines, or just colliding with another drone. I tend not to fly at events any more. Partly because it is distracting to people who might be watching a show, but also it is quite dangerous if there is a large crowd. The number one rule for drone pilots is to make sure you have a wide and clear area in case of an emergency landing. This kind of thing is why the Ministry of Transport came out with a new law about the use of drones in Thailand.

Scroll down for the law regarding drones in Thailand.

Even after you have registered your drone with the NBTC, bought insurance and have permission to fly from CAAT, you still need to obey the following rules. If not, you will be subject to a fine and maybe imprisonment.

Once you have permission from the land owner to fly, you must obey these rules while flying:

  • must not fly in a way that may cause harm to the life, property and peace of others
  • must not fly into restricted area, limited area and dangerous area announced in Aeronautical Information Publication – Thailand or AIP-Thailand and also at government buildings and hospitals unless permission is given.
  • take-off and landing area must not be obstructed by anything
  • must keep the Unmanned Aircraft in line-of-sight at all times and not rely on the monitor or other devices
  • must only fly between sunrise and sunset when the Unmanned Aircraft can clearly be seen
  • must not fly in or near clouds
  • must not fly within 9 km (5 nautical miles) from airport or temporary airfield unless having permission from the airport or airfields operators
  • must not fly over 90 meters above the ground
  • must not fly over cities, villages, communities or areas where people are gathered
  • must not fly near other aircraft that have pilots
  • must not violate the privacy rights of others
  • must not cause a nuisance to others
  • must not deliver or carry dangerous items or lasers on the Unmanned Aircraft
  • must not fly horizontally closer than 30 meters (100 feet) to people, vehicles, constructions or buildings

For the full regulations, click here, or visit the CAAT website for the latest up to date information.

Before I continue, I should point out something in the above infographic released by CAAT which is contradictory to the regulations. The infographic says you need to have a licence to fly if your drone has a camera, even if it is less than two kilos. But, the regulations do not say anything about that. From what I, and other people understood, if you have a small drone like a Spark or Mavick that weighs less than two kilos, you do not need to get permission to fly from CAAT. As long as you are not using it for commercial reasons and you obey the above rules. However, officials we have spoken to at CAAT insist that you still have to get permission to fly. We asked specifically about the smallest of drones, DJI Spark, and they said yes, we would need insurance and permission to fly.

Scroll down for how to register your drone with NBTC.

If you intend to fly a drone in Thailand, then by Thai law you must register it first with the NBTC before the 9 January 2018 deadline. If you don’t, you are violating the Communications Radio Act. Apparently, only 350 drones have been registered up to now out of an estimated 50,000 drones in Thailand. Which is why there is now a crackdown on drones. Before, we probably would have gotten away with flying without a license if we were discreet. But, now, thanks to all of the publicity, everyone knows that you must register your drone or you will face up to five years in prison. It was front page news in the Bangkok Post (see the article here) and other national newspapers.

The following is what I did to register my drones with NBTC in Bangkok. They have 17 offices around Thailand, and so you don’t need to do this here. Also, you are apparently allowed to register at your local police station. I know people who have done this, but make sure you download the form in advance as they won’t know anything about it. My advice is to go to your local NBTC officer. In Thai it is “กสทช.”, just search for it on google maps. For the one in Bangkok, it is on Soi Phahonyothin 8. Click here for the map link. When you arrive, you will see the big building in the photo above. You need to go to Building 2, first floor. From the front gate, turn right and walk down a path. Don’t go through security. You will see the building on your right near the road.

Before you go, you should prepare the following. If you do so, then you will be in and out in just five minutes. That is how long it took me to register my two drones.

  1. Sign a copy of your passport
  2. Proof of address like house registration, lease, rental contract or work permit (this is new)
  3. Photos of your drone and the serial number on your drone
  4. Two copies of the filled in application form

That’s it if you are just flying as a hobby like myself. If you are media or a registered company, then there are more documents that you need.

NOTES: 

  1. You don’t need to take your drone into the office. Though some people did.
  2. Stick the photos on a piece of A4 paper and then sign the sheet of paper.
  3. You need a set of documents for each of your drones.
  4. The serial numbers are on a sticker on the drone box. I took a picture of that.
  5. Print the application form on both sides of a sheet of paper. Or pick one up at their office.
  6. The filled in form needs to be photocopied. This is what they stamp and return to you.

This is a link to the page on the NBTC page about the regulations. This is a direct link to download the form. It is only in Thai. I will take you through it step by step below. Scroll down.

The first three fields to fill in are for “Day/Month/Year”

The next section is about the weight of your drone. I ticked the first one as my drones are less than 2 kilos. The others are for between 2 and 25 kilos, and for more than 25 kilos.

Number 5 is your first name and number 6 is your family name. Number 7 is your age. Number 8 and 9 is your nationality. I wrote UK.

Numbers 10-12 is your birthday written as Day/Month/Year. Number 13 is your ID card number. I wrote my passport number.

Number 15-21 is your address. 15 is the house number, 16 the Soi number, 17 the road name, 18 the Tambon or kwang name, 19 the Amphoe or Khet name, 20 the province name, and 21 the post code. Number 22 is your telephone number. I didn’t fill in the rest.

UPDATE: They didn’t ask me for proof of address when I went, but now they apparently are. I’m not sure yet what tourists can do about this.

I didn’t fill in Section 2 as I am a private individual. Continue to page two.

For Number 23, I ticked the first box as I just fly for a hobby. The others are for media, businesses etc.

For Number 24, I wrote the name of my drone. For Number 25 it is asking for the number of drones and rotors. I wrote one drone and four rotors. I was registering a DJI Phantom 3 and a DJI Spark. I did this on two different forms. I guess if you have two of the same then use the same form.

For number 26, I wrote the serial number of the drone. As I said before, it is on a sticker on your box. Number 27 is the weight. Number 28 is for what equipment is fixed. I said camera. Number 29 is the maximum height it can go in meters. Number 30 is the frequency. For mine I wrote 2.400 – 2.483 GHz.

That’s it. Sign your name and then write your name clearly in the brackets below. The other signatures are for the officials. Hand them into the officer at the reception. It took them about five minutes to check everything and stamp it. The registration is free at the moment.

UPDATED: When I went to the NBTC office, the official said that there was no need for me to do anything else. They said they would forward my application to CAAT. But people who went later are reporting that NBTC officials are now saying that you also need to get permission to fly from CAAT. This is because at NBTC you are just registering your radio communications device. I rang CAAT and an official there confirmed this. They also added you need to get insurance first before they would accept your application. The whole process will take about two months. Maybe longer now as over 1,300 drones were registered at NBTC in the first week alone. Some people in the comments below have said that after they registered with CAAT, they were told that they would pass on their registration to NBTC. So, no need to do both.

If you want to do that yourself, then click here for the forms and regulations in English. If you search for Thai drone insurance on Facebook you will find some companies that offer it.  If you have experience of registering your drone in Thailand, or you have any questions, then please feel free to post them below in the comments. Please remember, if you do fly your drone in Thailand, please do so responsibly. It only needs one person to fly over the Grand Palace or crash into an aircraft for drones to be banned for everyone.

PLEASE READ THE COMMENTS BELOW FOR SOME USEFUL ADVICE. 

916 thoughts on “How to register your drone in Thailand

  • July 20, 2018 at 6:34 pm
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    Anybody got a license recently? Was wondering how much time people wait until they get a license these days? I have submitted my paperwork back in November 2017 and still waiting…

    Reply
    • July 20, 2018 at 6:57 pm
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      Mate I submitted mine back in late august last year.they said they had everything nessessary to process my registration.still havnt heard back from them,ive been and gone from Thailand now with drone in backpack

      Reply
    • July 20, 2018 at 7:02 pm
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      its nonsense,no one cares out there.i think this whole thread was set up by Richard barrow because he has full permission to shoot pretty much anywhere as to prevent other people from getting nice photos or video of some of the beautiful scenery out in stunning Thailand so he can have it all for himself.if u take a drone,just be sensible with it.ask people if its to grab afew photos and don’t do anything silly or dangerous with it.use ur common sense basically.

      Reply
      • July 20, 2018 at 7:09 pm
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        LOL, Full permission? I wish. I haven’t flown in Bangkok since this all started and I often get refused permission to fly. National parks these days are hard. When I fly, I’m always discreet. In and out quickly. Always with my back to the sun. And always now with my smallest drone so I can quickly pocket it and walk away, no one the wiser. Being discreet is the keyword. No one likes drones buzzing around their head. Don’t make people angry, and then the next drone pilot will have some luck too. The last place I visited they said no because too many people had flown without asking permission and had created a nuisance. Flying low and fast.

        Reply
  • July 20, 2018 at 5:19 pm
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    I cannot see the dropbox file. It says it does not exist anymore..

    Reply
  • July 20, 2018 at 12:03 am
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    I am going to Thailand and Cambodia in December. I am in Bangkok one night then spending 10 nights in Cambodia, finishing off with 4 nights in Thailand.

    I want to take my DJI Spark with me, but after reading it will cost about £100 and having to go and register at an office on arrival, when I most likely will not use it, I will struggle to do this.

    If I bring my drone with me in my hand luggage and do not fly it in Thailand, will I be OK? I am worried they will take my drone off me at customs if I do not have the right registration form.

    I know if I do fly it, and I get caught then it is my own fault, but to be honest I doubt I will do much filming in Phuket as I will not be doing the islands this time.

    Reply
      • July 20, 2018 at 5:24 am
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        Thanks, I’ve been looking at insurance and I found one in the UK who cover worldwide for £58. They said the following when I asked about the insurance.

        The Public Liability policy doesn’t cover you to fly a specific drone – it covers you to fly ANY drone up to the 7kg weight limit – so unfortunately the details you mention are not included on the certificate we provide.

        I could send you a sample certificate to forward on to see if it will be accepted? And if it helps we could write an accompanying letter which includes the drone’s details?

        Please also note that the policy is suitable for recreational flying only and would not cover any professional activities.

        I am tempted to get this but worried it may get rejected as the info is not on the certificate but thr accompanying letter. The company is : http://www.ccc3.co.uk/drone?exref=QR123

        The insurance for just the 6 days in Thailand is double this, and this is ok to use for the year worldwide. What do you think?

        Reply
        • July 20, 2018 at 11:11 am
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          Any insurance is better than no insurance, but I do t know if CAAT will accept this or not.

          Reply
          • July 20, 2018 at 12:58 pm
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            Hello !
            Just for you information Caat do not accept registration if you do not provide insurance and more do not fill-up and sign the new self declaration -form ( do not exist public access )
            Remember I have my license that mind you can believe me …
            https://www.dropbox.com/home/00-L%C3%89GALE%20LICENSE%20DRONE%20THA%C3%8FLANDE%202018?preview=No+ID+Official+drone+license+17+JULY+2018.JPG

            This is the requirement of CAAT during my registration
            Tantawat Charoonpatrapong

            Hello,

            I received you document already.
            However; about your insurance paperwork that we talked before, when you have it, you can send it via this e-mail.

            Thank you,

            On Wed, Nov 1, 2017 at 11:17 AM, atreg caat wrote:


            ______________________________________________________________________
            ธัญธวัช จรูญภัทรพงษ์ (Tantawat Charoonpatrapong)

            กองใบอนุญาตประกอบกิจการ ฝ่ายกำกับกิจการการบินพลเรือน ( ERD / TL )

            caat-logo_small

            The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT)
            333/105 Lak Si Plaza, Khamphaeng Phet 6 Rd., Talat Bang Khen, Lak Si, Bangkok, Thailand 10210

            Website: http://www.caat.or.th email : [email protected] Tel. 02 568 1504

  • July 18, 2018 at 9:02 pm
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    Question about insurance.. I have business insurance in Canada that protects me for liability up to 1 million dollars CAD in every country minus a handful. This is the insurance I use for legal drone flying locally, and technically I would be insured for Thailand as well. Is this considered ok for getting CAAT registration, or do I need to get Thai insurance specifically from one of their insurance companies?

    Reply
  • July 1, 2018 at 7:09 am
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    I had not problems bring my Spark into Thailand. Took in with my carry on.

    No dramas in Australia or New Zealand.

    My advice: do what you’re gonna do. Just do it politely and respectfully.

    Honestly is always the best policy

    Reply
    • July 1, 2018 at 10:11 am
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      There are no problems being reported at the airports. But the fact is, if you fly without a license in Thailand then you are doing so illegally. Maximum fine is four years in prison. Your choice.

      Reply
      • July 2, 2018 at 2:55 pm
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        Thanks Richard. I did forget to mention that I do have all the necessary requirements to legally fly in Thailand.

        Cheers.

        Reply
  • June 18, 2018 at 8:20 am
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    Drone insurance company no longer providing insurance
    https://www.phantomthailand.com/product/Drone-Insurance

    ALWAYS SAYS OUT OF STOCK –

    UNLESS OF COURSE YOU BUY FROM THEIR COMPANY THEN YOU CAN GET A FULL PACKAGE OF REGISTRATION AND INSURANCE.

    IT IS CLEAR (JUST LIKE OTHER COUNTRIES), A LARGE COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISE WANTED TO AHVE A MONOPOLY ON THE SALE OF A PRODUCT, DRONES, AND FOUND A WAY TO USE THE GOVERNMENT TO DO IT.

    WHEN DRONE INSURANCE STARTED TO BE USED FOR PRODUCTS THAT WERE NOT SOLD BY THE LOCAL THAI REGISTERED COMPANY – THE INSURANCE BECAME UNAVAILBLE

    Reply
  • June 13, 2018 at 4:33 pm
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    So, even if I want to take my mavic air to bangkok for registration, I still need to get a permit? Flying legally is really so annoying.

    Reply
  • June 13, 2018 at 4:31 pm
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    So, It means that Even if I want to bring my mavic air to thailand without flying it, I will still need to get a permit? And I have to wait a freaking long time until I can fly legally? wtf

    Reply
  • June 7, 2018 at 3:01 pm
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    Richard appreciate the info. The forms are to the NBTC do not work. Do you have any recommendations for insurance? Drone insure your thoughts onthem?

    Reply
  • June 6, 2018 at 4:19 am
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    Gosh.. all this to fly a drone in Thailand. Couple of things;

    The link for the NBTC registration form does not provide the form. Comes up with ‘Page not found’ on the NBTC website. Can anyone help get me a form? It sounds like there is also a ‘new’ form for this?

    Obtaining customs permission – how is this done? Is there another form to complete/send off or is this part of the NBTC application.

    Reply
  • May 23, 2018 at 11:48 pm
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    Hi guys, do you have any update regarding this new laws? I’ll be backpacking from the end of August around Asia, and I won’t be in Thailand at least until December or even January, so far I thing in China and Japan I’ll have less hassle and no restriction to bring my little spark but even if I try to apply now for a permit I might not be here once the whole process end, beside maybe even they change in between my trip regulations… Shall I contact directly CAAT?

    Reply
  • May 23, 2018 at 5:18 pm
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    After reading all this shit, I will just fly the drone in other SEA countries. I mean wtf, can it be even more complicated? It’s just a perfect example of inefficiency and an ancient system. Something which can be done online within minutes requires couple of months? I mean come on,…

    Reply
    • May 23, 2018 at 5:28 pm
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      Well, don’t fly in Burma as you could go to prison. I think the same for Singapore. And I believe Vietnam is strict too.

      Reply
      • May 23, 2018 at 7:35 pm
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        Aha… when it comes to “doing what you like”, I think Cambodia is the last country left in SEA. Go enjoy while it lasts! I have considered moving there for that last little blast of freedom. You still can’t fly in Phnom Penh, but hey… that kinda makes sense. 🙂

        Reply
    • May 23, 2018 at 8:20 pm
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      Not only in Asia, if you go to Australia or New Zealand they have more rigorous rules, but once you go on tour to isolated areas, and ask the tour guide, if possible to fly, they just tell you to check weather.

      Reply
      • May 24, 2018 at 12:54 pm
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        New Zealand is a great place to fly as when driving from town to town its pretty isolated. No one around form miles so no drama.

        I’m flying in and around Bangkok a lot. Never been stopped or asked to show any paper work. I do use common sense when flying.

        Reply
  • May 11, 2018 at 11:25 pm
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    dear all

    does the solution is to register our drone from a thai person ? and you borrow the drone and its licence to flight with it

    Reply
    • May 12, 2018 at 6:56 am
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      No because the license has your name and photo on it. You wear it around your neck when you fly.

      Reply
      • May 12, 2018 at 7:54 am
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        That must be a new system because my license from CAAT is just a two pieces of paper, let’s see when I renew it next year,

        Reply
        • May 12, 2018 at 6:16 pm
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          I received my registration just a month ago and at that time there was no photo…

          Reply
          • May 12, 2018 at 6:25 pm
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            Thanks Siamect

      • May 14, 2018 at 6:46 am
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        Hi, I just got mine a few weeks ago. The licence is A4 sized with no photo, the 2nd document that came with it is also A4. Too big to wear around my neck.

        Reply
        • May 14, 2018 at 9:47 am
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          I each made photocopies of all the required documents; NBTC registration , Drone Insurance, & CAAT licence to fly. I have a copy in the car, a copy in the drone case (originals always safe at home) oh and photos of all documents on my phone – just in case.

          Reply
          • May 14, 2018 at 12:53 pm
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            Hi Richard, where from is coming “No because the license has your name and photo on it. You wear it around your neck when you fly.” . Even some pilots are getting the standard documents as this month.

            Or people from the press had got special license to wear around?

            A bit confusing

          • May 14, 2018 at 12:55 pm
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            In the beginning it was like that. Obviously from the comments it has changed now. Thanks.

  • May 1, 2018 at 9:07 pm
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    Wow this comment section just got more complicated.
    Let me give you my situation.
    Im flying out to Bangkok in 2 days.
    The country I reside in I have a drone pilots license.
    From my understanding its too late to apply for a license in Bangkok.
    Do i need to fill out the self deceleration form and notify at Bangkok or do I just keep the drone in my bag and the batteries in my backpack and keep my mouth shut?
    Also is the situation the same travelling on domestic flights in Thailand?
    Thanks

    Reply
    • May 1, 2018 at 9:39 pm
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      Technically it’s illegal to import or own an unlicensed drone in Thailand. Though so far, I haven’t heard of any problems at airports. As far as flying your drone once here, you should be aware that it would be illegal to do so without permission to fly. If you choose to do so, then it’s at your own risk.

      Owning an unlicensed drone is up to four years in prison. Flying a drone without permission is up to two years in prison. As I’ve mentioned before, I’ve not seen any reports of anyone being arrested for these offenses. Though some people have been charged with these offenses after breaking other laws.

      Reply
  • May 1, 2018 at 5:46 pm
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    Months after applying for permission, I have not heard anything & due to travel there very shortly. Does anyone have any advice?

    Reply
  • April 29, 2018 at 11:13 am
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    I think what this means is that the govt’s attempts to regulate and control the use of drones is an ineffective mess. Has anyone yet been fined or jailed for not having either or both licenses? The NBTC license was pretty straightforward to obtain but getting a CAAT license is a nightmare. Any other countries require insurance?. I would say best bet for now is to get the NBTC license and fly discreetly. If you are flying smartly I think you have a much higher probability of getting into a vehicle accident in Thailand than getting jailed for not having a CAAT license. Hopefully at some point this whole drone registration process will get overhauled and become more sensible.

    Reply
    • April 29, 2018 at 11:23 am
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      No-one has been jailed directly as far as I know, but drone pilots have been charged with not having an operating license after committing a different offense. Which basically means, keep your nose clean and obey all rules as to where and when you can fly, then you should be fine with just a NBTC license. Though obviously, to be fully compliant, you should also have a license from CAAT. By the way, the 19km exclusion zone over much of Bangkok is still in affect as far as I know.

      Reply
  • April 29, 2018 at 10:21 am
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    Just an update from the National News Bureau on the number of drones registered:

    NBTC Secretary-General Takorn Tantasith revealed the authorities have so far registered 11,016 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) or drones. A total of 8,843 drones have been registered with the NBTC, 4,349 of which outside Bangkok, while 706 others have been registered with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, and 1,467 others with police stations nationwide.

    So, does that mean that only 706 drones in Thailand have permission from CAAT to fly? The 10,000 or so registered with NBTC and local police stations only have permission to own/import a drone.

    Reply
  • April 29, 2018 at 12:30 am
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    What is the best email address to follow up with CAAT? I tried a few but haven’t received any response.

    Thanks

    Reply
    • April 29, 2018 at 8:27 am
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      Getting a Thai friend to call them is much better.

      Reply
  • April 28, 2018 at 12:58 am
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    2561 Page 35 Volume 135 Special Chapter 11 The Government Gazette January 18, 2061
    January 18, 2018
    It is advisable to lay down rules and ”conditions for the use of radio frequencies for aircraft without a pilot for general use” . For convenience, the general public can use aircraft without a pilot for general use in a manner intended to play a hobby. For entertainment or for sports. And to report events or traffic to a photograph, a shooting, or for a show in a movie or television show. Research and Development Or for other purposes in accordance with the rules and conditions governing Aircraft without pilot under aeronautical law shall have the power, in accordance with Section 27 (4) of the Frequency Allocation Act, to regulate the operation of Radio Broadcasting Radio And the telecommunications business in 2010, as amended by the Act.
    Organization of spectrum allocation and regulation of radio broadcasting. Radio 2) BE 2560 and Section 27 (5) and 24)
    Of the Frequency Allocation Act and the Radio Broadcasting Act. Radio And telecommunications business in 2010, including Section 6 and Article 11.
    The Radio Communication Act BE 2498, as amended by the Radio Announcement Act (No.3), BE 2535 (1992). Television Clause 1. This Notification shall come into force as from the following day, and shall be published in the Government Gazette. Article 2 All the notifications, rules and regulations and any other relevant regulations shall be effective from the day following the announcement in the Government Gazette.
    Clause 3 of this Notification: “Aircraft without pilot” means aircraft with no internal pilot within the aircraft (Drone) .

    Reply
  • April 28, 2018 at 12:45 am
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    NBTC regulations on terms and conditions of radio frequency permits for aircraft without pilot For general use. Radio frequecy permission is not fly permission !!!!!
    Drone-general-criteria.pdf
    Announcement of the Broadcasting Committee Television And the national telecommunications.
    Rules and Conditions for Radio Frequency Allowances for Aircraft Without Pilot For general use.

    Reply
  • April 28, 2018 at 12:44 am
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    I’m traveling to Thailand next week. I submitted my paperwork to CAAT months ago and no response. I even followed up via email with no response.

    Have there been any reports of drones being confiscated at the airport upon entry?

    Reply
    • April 28, 2018 at 1:49 am
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      Eric ,
      You will have no answer from the Caat !!! It seems that you are not resident in Thailand
      In addition you have not completed the last document that CAAT sends to those who insist on having a license After 5 month and insitence I receive a new document SELF-DECLARATION FORM to be fill-up and send back with more my Insurance Proof paperwork
      note that I am resident long stay visa here ….
      You can collect this blank form here CAAT do not provide it
      https://www.dropbox.com/s/ii8bcncf42eg1fa/Self-Declaration%20blank%20form.pdf?dl=0

      Custom situation
      There is no confiscation of drone so far !!!
      but for your information please take note of this recent notification from the Royal Thai police division tourist declaration of temporary importation of your drone in Customs it’s all fresh March 15, 2018 In Government Policy, News !!!
      https://touristpolice.go.th/en/2018/03/15/drone-regulations-in-thailand/

      For your information here are the exact criteria to intelligibility of the application of License this information is of CAAT sources not translated what makes that many foreigners have not yet understood the process and the requirement to intelligibility in clear they do not have intention to license non-resident aliens with an exemption visa ……

      https://www.caat.or.th/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%B6%E0%B9%89%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%B0%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%9A%E0%B8%B5%E0%B8%A2%E0%B8%99%E0%B9%82%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%992edit-13112017.pdf
      Traduction
      Application for registration or compulsory UAV
      Application Criteria
      – UAVs equipped with camera cameras must be registered in all cases.
      – UAVs weighing more than 2 kg must be registered at all times.
      – A forced or released UAV that weighs more than 25 kilograms.
      (Must be authorized in writing from Minister of Transport CAAT will check the eligibility of applicants / representatives / coauthors with the National Bureau of Filtering Films, the Office of the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Immigration Bureau. It will take at least 45 days.

      Application and proof of application. (Copy must be signed)
      1. Fill in registration form of CAAT and NBTC.
      Government, state enterprise or state agency
      – Attach evidence of government, state enterprise or state agency. And authority
      Corporate
      – A certificate of juristic person (age not exceeding 6 months) and list of authorized directors
      Or power of attorney from the authorized director
      2. Fill out the CAAT personal information form.
      Corporate
      – The authorized director or a representative of the authorized representative and a copy of the identification card.
      Copy of house registration Or copy of passport (3 copies / person)
      Individual
      – A copy of ID card.
      – Copy of house registration (3 copies / person)
      3. Foreigner
      – Passport, Visa (Passport)
      – Work permit or residence in Thailand
      The oblige or the UAV must comply with the notification of the Ministry of Transport.
      Permit Criteria and the conditions for enforcing or releasing aircraft, which do not have
      the type of aircraft control aircraft that control flight outside of BE 2558.

      Welcome in the virtual drone fly !!!!!!
      Regards

      Reply
    • April 28, 2018 at 6:30 am
      Permalink

      There have been no reports so far. However, for it to be legal for you to import a drone into Thailand, you need to register it with NBTC.

      Reply
        • June 15, 2018 at 3:57 pm
          Permalink

          Written by someone called I’m 13 with a gmail address on that page. Doesn’t seem that trustworthy. How about some source criticism?

          Reply
      • April 28, 2018 at 7:34 am
        Permalink

        Hi Richard,

        Thanks for the reply. As a foreign tourist, how can I register with the NBTC without physically visiting their building?

        Reply
        • April 28, 2018 at 7:36 am
          Permalink

          I haven’t heard of a way yet. But to be clear here, registering with NBTC only gives you permission to own a radio controlled drone. To actually fly it, you need permission from CAAT.

          Reply
          • April 28, 2018 at 8:27 am
            Permalink

            That is better and It is clear !!!!
            To many people do not understand 2 different mandatory registration shall be done !!!!
            NBTC ( radio only ) and more CAAT for flying permission it clearly indicated by authorities
            unfortunately not translated correctly …..
            You must to have Visa long stay !!!!! Exemption stamp visa on your passport is not qualified !!!!!
            How we can explain that !!!!!!
            The story is not finish because Authorities do not talk clearly with public announcement no coordination between two ministers and more ( Immigration division for investigation and Criminal Police division more and more in charge ….)
            Now !!!!!! It is Royal Thai police Tourist division announcement about Import drone shall be declared in custom ……… It is extravagant because it not his Police job and very poor important deployment information Why ??????????
            That create a permanent big confusion for foreigners
            Regards

      • April 29, 2018 at 8:37 am
        Permalink

        Hi Richard,

        I purchased my DJI drone here in Bangkok. I have registered my drone with NBTC. I have Thai drone insurance. And I received my permission to fly from CAAT.

        If I was To leave Thailand for an overseas holiday, I’m planning to take my drone with me. On returning to Thailand since my drone was purchased in Thailand do I need to worry about any of the “importing rules “ Or just showing the above mentioned documents should be ok?

        Thanks.

        Reply
        • April 29, 2018 at 8:46 am
          Permalink

          In theory, showing your NBTC license should be enough, as it shows that your drone “lives” in Thailand. If you are still worried, you can register your drone with customs as you leave the country. That way, when you come back, there is certain proof you did not import.

          Reply
  • April 27, 2018 at 8:13 pm
    Permalink

    We went to NBTC today.
    There is a new version of the form (the one on their website is outdated) and you have to go to another building than shown here in the article, but security guards know about when you say “drone” – they will show you where to go.
    You will also get the form there.
    They are very friendly and help you with the form

    IMPORTANT: You will also have to enter the serial number of the controller!!!
    And you have to provide a thai address – but a hotel seems to be fine.
    They also want to see you passport with the entry stamp or the visa.

    Reply
  • April 25, 2018 at 8:14 am
    Permalink

    Hello Richard,

    Drone Thai Insurance are stating that “flying drones over Bangkok Metropolitan, is now strictly prohibited, need to get permission as case by case from CAAT.”

    Have you heard anything about this?
    What exactly would the Metropolitan area of Bangkok be?

    Thanks

    Reply
    • April 25, 2018 at 8:29 am
      Permalink

      I believe there’s a 19km exclusion zone still in force around Dusit. Which is virtually all of Bangkok.

      Reply
      • April 26, 2018 at 3:48 pm
        Permalink

        That’s good to know as the DJI GO 4 app Geo Zones map doesn’t highlight it.

        Reply
        • April 26, 2018 at 10:47 pm
          Permalink

          Sorry my Friend
          DJO GO ‘ app it is not legal and official Map !!
          As per law B.E. 2558 (A.D. 2015)
          Article (b) must not fly into restricted area, limited area and dangerous area announced in Aeronautical Information Publication – Thailand or AIP-Thailand and also at government buildings and hospitals unless permission is given.;

          Please, look AIP 5.1 MAP APP Google provided by CAAT
          and you will see VTD and VTR have been increased not only 19 km very big area is prohibited
          All 5 composites provinces Bangkok area
          regards

          Reply
  • April 24, 2018 at 12:56 pm
    Permalink

    Hello!

    Has anyone with or with out all the required documentation ever been asked by anyone official for their drone insurance/registration/permission to fly ?

    Just curious

    Reply
    • April 25, 2018 at 8:28 am
      Permalink

      Never, and I’ve flown all over Thailand. But I’m discreet when I do so and I obey all the rules. I also always ask permission when it’s private land or an event.

      Reply
  • April 23, 2018 at 8:37 am
    Permalink

    Yes I am planning ahead for enough time will be getting first drone this week then i will fill out caat papers just need to know what to do about address

    Reply
  • April 23, 2018 at 8:22 am
    Permalink

    As a tourist are you applying 5 months in advance?

    The wait time for CAAT seems to be long.

    Reply
  • April 23, 2018 at 4:39 am
    Permalink

    If you are tourist how can you put down an address especially if you don’t know where you are going to stay makes no sense. Or should you live it blank on the Catt form or the Nbtc form

    Reply
    • April 23, 2018 at 4:41 pm
      Permalink

      Steve, do not dream You will have not success with application
      They stay here with legal long stay visa and after 5 months still not delivery license and Caat request to fill self declaration again after primary complete requirement included insurance !!!!
      You can not proceed if you do not have certified address in Thailand by residence certificate delivery by immigration office or Tabien ban yellow Ns TH13 more personal national ID card 13 Digit ( Pink colour) delivery by the National Register DOPA BORA provincial administration
      regards

      Reply
  • April 22, 2018 at 10:52 am
    Permalink

    You left out your description of line 14 on the form… I copied the Thai version to Google Translate and it says “Living………”. Any help here?

    Reply
  • April 20, 2018 at 6:26 pm
    Permalink

    160 Days or 23 Weeks or 5 months

    Whatever way you look at it…

    That’s how long it took me to receive my license to fly from CAAT.

    See you in the sky!

    Reply
    • April 20, 2018 at 8:26 pm
      Permalink

      Congratulations “Ready to Fly” that is there good thing here in Thailand, although we go through the hassle of bureaucracy we are allowed.

      See ya up there!!!!

      Reply
  • April 19, 2018 at 8:02 am
    Permalink

    I need help and need a list of Thai drone insurance in Thailand.

    Thanks,

    Reply
    • April 19, 2018 at 3:19 pm
      Permalink

      You have come to the right place. Please read the comments above information on drone insurance in Thailand.

      🙂

      Reply
  • April 12, 2018 at 4:56 pm
    Permalink

    Thanks Richard, nice answer.
    But any one can tell me, what is a toy drone ?
    And about NBTC……i need to register now my remote controlled pool pump and my remote controlled garden lamps and my remote controll car key and my remote controlled sun awning ?
    Its a funny situation.
    But i fly any way on my private ground and for flying far away from peoples and buildings, there is a old, abandoned for many years, airfield near Pak Nam Pran.
    I think there it is no problem when no one is there.
    Happy flying

    Reply
  • April 11, 2018 at 1:50 pm
    Permalink

    H E L P !
    And what is with Drones under 50g with cam for less than $30.- ?
    I have about 20 of this, just for fun.
    I need now a registration ?
    I need now a insurance ?
    I need now to wait any month to fly again ?
    Any one can help or know more ?
    I think, is a silly situation.

    Reply
    • April 11, 2018 at 2:00 pm
      Permalink

      You do not need to register toy drones. But officially, any drone with a camera needs permission to fly from CAAT. And any remote controlled device needs to be registered with NBTC.

      Reply
      • April 20, 2018 at 11:25 pm
        Permalink

        Good evening
        This is now more than 5 months ago that I sent my application and my insurance
        I called and wrote several times no news !!!

        Yesterday, we called again the person in charge of recovering the application !!!
        And oh ! surprise he sends me a mail and a new form not provided in the procedure to fill and sign
        Self declaration form new !!!!!
         
        Here the mail received from CAAT after my last call ….
        Khun Tantawat Charoonpatrapong ( [email protected])
        Please , kindly fill in your name and last name on 5th line and have your signature in the bottom in the self-declaration form as attached.

        I resend the new document you will find it here the Self declaration https://www.dropbox.com/s/9euys98dx27vc5p/New%20form%20SELF%20DECLARATION%20Recieved%205%20months%20after%20full%20application.PNG?dl=0

        My answer mail
        Morning Khun Tantawat
        Thank you for your quick answer !!!
        You provide and add a new document ???
        I am very surprised by this requirement coming 5 month after my application and not provided by Caat …Authority request to provide Insurance I have done and this insurance ready runningfor 5 month ago for nothing !!!
        Never mind ! please find here attached my self declaration filled/ signed and certified by my ID Card Identification 13 digit
        I waiting this license because, I need it and I want to respect clearly the law and rules of the Kingdom !!!
        Cordially

        Reply
  • April 6, 2018 at 9:32 pm
    Permalink

    I’ll be in Bangkok/Khao Yai this December, with all these hassles to fly something as small as DJI spark can I just opt for some tiny drone like Zerotech Dobby which is 199grams and avoid the requirement to apply for permit tru CAAT and NBTC?

    Reply
  • April 3, 2018 at 8:17 am
    Permalink

    Valdas: To confirm . . Same happened to me when I called about a week ago. Complete and return “Self Declaration” form and told my license would be sent within 2-3 weeks. My application has been in since November 8 last year. Seems the ‘background check” is the major bottleneck in the process.

    Reply
    • April 3, 2018 at 8:18 am
      Permalink

      May I ask which phone number you call to confirm they have your application/check status?

      Reply
  • April 2, 2018 at 9:08 pm
    Permalink

    This is more for those that are waiting for their permits for a long time: its been nearly 4 month since I submitted my application and last week I called them to see what was going on. I was told that they were still waiting for my criminal check results from another ministry. Then they suggested me and emailed me a form called “self declaration” to confirm I was not involved in any criminal activities in the past. After signing it and returning back to CAAT this would have allowed them to process the permit not waiting for my background check results anymore (or at least to speed things up). With this document signed they promised to process my permit within 3 weeks….Just FYI

    Reply
    • April 21, 2018 at 9:14 am
      Permalink

      Same Process for me !!!!
      I think tHey do not investigate !!!
      To many National Thai people receive ready the licence without control ….
      National ID card 13 digit (bleu) give by screen the criminal access situation by registrar but the card have Ship puce not Alien card ID
      if it is the case probably Immigration do not renew your Long stay visa OA !!!
      Regards

      Reply
  • March 30, 2018 at 12:24 am
    Permalink

    If you’re going to fly illegally in Thailand, at least be very discreet and really really make sure if anything goes wrong, you’re not going to hurt anyone or damage any historical buildings or something along those lines, basically for things you may not be able to bride your way out. Thai prison is one of the most horrible place on earth, really!

    Reply
  • March 28, 2018 at 11:04 pm
    Permalink

    Hi
    Do you know what docs need to ship drone to Thailand from usa?

    Reply
    • April 1, 2018 at 1:59 pm
      Permalink

      Yes… I’m interested to know also…

      Or if there are any rules at all?

      Reply
      • April 25, 2018 at 12:24 pm
        Permalink

        To all concerned people !!!
        Here is the latest announcement of the Royal Thai Police Division (Police Tourits) of March 18, 2018
        Mandatory Temporary Import Certificate in addition to NTBC and CAAT Authorizations

        https://touristpolice.go.th/en/2018/03/15/drone-regulations-in-thailand/

        and for those who are waiting for their licenses after 5 months and if you insist by call and email …… the CAAT will send you a new document Sel-declaration to complete and sign to return ……
        Clearly, we have not arrived at the end of our sentences and there is obviously a desire to obstruct the flight for foreigners they are residents in Thailand (long stay visa or Tourists …… thousands of licenses have been granted in 3 months to pilots of drones of Thai nationality who do anything to fly in Bangkok in areas where it is forbidden to fly.
        No comment

        Reply
    • April 2, 2018 at 3:53 pm
      Permalink

      Shipping a drone to Thailand…. you mean buying it online and having it shipped here?

      I’ve been reading some not so good info regarding buying a drone from the DJI website and having it delivered (shipped) here……

      from an online post……….
      “My drone arrived in Thailand last week and its been a nightmare.

      1. DHL wanted to charge me VAT and custom’s clearance. It took several days before DJI cleared that up

      2. Customs then demanded to see an importer’s license.

      3. DHL then opened up the packaged and informed the Thai Civil Aviation Authority in Thailand, you need CAA license for drones over 2kg, DHL informed the CAA the shipping weight not the drone weight. So now my drone is impounded. Been going through an mountain of bureaucratic red tape and paper work. Basically, I’m doing all the paper work to get an importer’s license and CAA license in order to prove that i do not need an importer’s license or CAA license.

      All of this would have been avoided if DHL just delivered the goods instead of stopping to collect vat, which was already paid by DJI. Also, things are different under the current military rule. Anyways, wait for the local distributor to have it in stock and buy it from them.”

      Maybe this may be different if your shipping a drone already purchased overseas(not new). I’m not sure.

      Gook Luck. Please update us!

      Reply
      • April 25, 2018 at 12:28 pm
        Permalink

        DJI Bangkok is the official dealer of the Chinese manufacturer do not be surprised if there is obstruction more is cheaper in BANGKOK than in the USA
        Do like me buy it in thailand !!!! much simpler and legal
        https://www.phantomthailand.com/

        Reply
    • April 2, 2018 at 5:06 pm
      Permalink

      Buy your drone in Thailand is the best option, then wait 6 months for your CAAT licence to be sent to your Thai address. Otherwise the bureaucracy and VAT cost of importing isn’t worth it for a drone. Likely NBT won’t register your drone if it’s not an official Thai import.

      I was told each drone needs it’s own CAA license which mow takes 6 months, Can anyone confirm if this is the case. I was hoping CAA licence covers the pilot because it’s quite quick to register a new drone with NBT and get insurance.

      I have several non CE Thai drones but thought best to buy a drone locally and wait 6 months. Hopefully when South weather gets clear again in 6 months I’ll be good to go.

      Reply
      • April 2, 2018 at 7:24 pm
        Permalink

        From what I understand the CAAT license does have your name on it but it only covers 1 drone.

        Reply
        • April 2, 2018 at 8:31 pm
          Permalink

          Yes that was what I was told in Bangkok, it’s a personal license linked to one drone,
          and only lasts two years.
          CAA have more applications coming in than going out, so the wait time is growing fast.

          Reply
          • April 3, 2018 at 5:42 am
            Permalink

            I submitted my application 144 days ago. Gave CAAT a call last week and they confirmed my application had been approved.

            I have to wait another couple of weeks for the next batch of printing.

            Might take a bit longer due to the Songkran holiday.

            Totally worth the wait to be able to fly legally.

      • April 25, 2018 at 12:39 pm
        Permalink

        Do not dream my friend !!!
        I am resident in Thailand and Both my Drone here ( DJI Phantom Bkk)
        My Requirement process documentation is still running after 5 months ( send in the last 11 November 2017 included Insurance for 2 millions by Mittare public insurance company ) In consequence I lost the time and spend money for nothing ….)
        Insurance company have confirmed I will be covered only If I have my license from authority CAAT and do not drive prohibited or restricted areas indicated by AIP ENR 5.1 map provided by CAAT for drone
        I call CAAT last week and new surprise it send me a new document to be fill up Sel-declaration
        https://www.dropbox.com/s/9euys98dx27vc5p/New%20form%20SELF%20DECLARATION%20Recieved%205%20months%20after%20full%20application.PNG?dl=0

        I did and send back the document and again waiting my license …..!!!!!!

        Reply
  • March 27, 2018 at 4:54 pm
    Permalink

    I am heading to Patong tomorrow and am only just finding out about these regulations. Should I even bother with registration? Since some people are saying it can take weeks or even months?

    Reply
    • March 27, 2018 at 4:57 pm
      Permalink

      It takes 3 months to get permission to fly and you have to pay about 3,500 Baht for insurance first. If you do decide to fly illegally, be warned that many beaches are no fly zones for health and safety reasons. Plus sunbathers don’t like drones flying over them.

      Reply
      • March 27, 2018 at 5:05 pm
        Permalink

        I’ve seen somewhere online about people going into police stations and registering that way. Is this a possibility? Thanks for your quick response Richard! Much appreciated!

        Reply
        • March 27, 2018 at 5:06 pm
          Permalink

          That was before the deadline back in January. They don’t allow that now. And that was only for registering a remote controlled device with NBTC. But to fly a drone you also need to get permission to fly from CAAT. That takes 3-4 months.

          Reply
        • March 27, 2018 at 5:08 pm
          Permalink

          Also do you have any recommendations of a drone insurance company I could use which it seems I’ll also need?

          Reply
    • March 27, 2018 at 5:13 pm
      Permalink

      Rob, it depends whether you want to fly legally or not 😉

      Here is my story, I came back from Thailand few days ago. I applied for registration over 3 months before date of arrival to Thailand, on 22 of November 2017. I landed in Chiang Mai on 4 of March 2018.

      On January 2018 I found somebody in Thailand who called to CAAT and asked if they have received my documents and if they are processing it – answer was “yes”, they even replied my e-mail, surprisingly!

      To make long story short: my Thai friend called them again and again, and finally… I DID NOT receive my registration (until today). They had problems with holidays, absence, and, what is most important (my guess), with insurance. I have insured drone in polish company, and I have attached to CAAT two documents:
      – insurance terms and conditions in english (original insurance company document)
      – payment and insurance confirmation in english and polish (original insurance company document)

      And this second document was problematic, because not everything was translated – for example some ordinary formula was only in polish (like “I have read everything and I agree for everything and blablabla”). And this was the problem – they did not know what is it, and this was the killer.

      What is interesting, I was adviced by CAAT (through my Thai friend) that even though I do not have my registration finished, I can fly with my drone with respect to Thai law and not to disturb other people or tourists and I should not have any problems.

      So after 2 weeks spent in Thailand with drone I have final thoughts:
      – no, you will not go to jail or pay milion BHT fine for starting a drone, unless you do something really stupid like flying in front of police, flying in national park, flying in Bangkok, Chiang Mai or just you will not respect their drone law
      – there are plenty of beautiful places you can fly (with respect to Thai law!!!) and not to disturb anybody like jungle, beaches, fields
      – there are places to visit, where you can politely ask “may I fly my drone in this area” – I am talking about limited areas where you buy a ticket to visit. And sometimes you hear answer “yes”, and you fly (not over people’s head!), and sometimes you hear “no drone” and you carry your bird inside your backpack.

      Please treat it as “talking from my experience”, it is not legal advice, I do not take any responsibility for what you do with your drone in Thailand 🙂

      Cheers 🙂

      Reply
      • March 27, 2018 at 5:16 pm
        Permalink

        Thanks for your feedback. Just to add, it’s illegal to fly in any national park which includes many islands and beaches. The officials will fine you. Already happened to a friend.

        Reply
        • March 27, 2018 at 5:21 pm
          Permalink

          How much is the fine for flying in national park?

          Reply
          • March 27, 2018 at 5:25 pm
            Permalink

            That’s the thing. It’s open to corruption because if you’re also flying without a license you could face up to four years in prison. They know that and so it’s up to you how much you want to stay out of prison. My friend paid 1,000 Baht, that’s the most he had, and he had to also delete ALL pictures on his card.

            Just to add, I’ve flown many times but never had this problem yet. Touch wood. BTW, the last time I flew in a national park I did have advance permission.

        • March 27, 2018 at 5:28 pm
          Permalink

          Richard totally agree!

          And (sorry for litthe off topic) there were many lamentation about drone law in Thailand, that you can even go to jail for one year! No big deal, in Poland for years we have law regarding drone saying that you go to jail for maximum 5 years (in extreme case).

          Tibor, I do not think there is price list. Maximum fine is 100.000 Baht, so be prepared for that amount of monety 😉

          Reply
          • March 27, 2018 at 5:30 pm
            Permalink

            I think the fine he was asking about was from park rangers. That would be on top of a fine for not having a license. BTW, the prison sentence for not registering a remote control device with NBTC is far greater than not getting permission to fly from CAAT.

      • March 27, 2018 at 5:24 pm
        Permalink

        So basically If I wish to use my drone in Thailand this week I’ll just have to do it unregistered 😄
        I will take your advice on board! I will fill out the forms that Richard has Kindly provided, send them in and keep copies on me just in case. I might even pop into the police station just to try. Thanks guys

        Reply
        • March 27, 2018 at 5:26 pm
          Permalink

          If you are discreet when you fly then you should be fine. Just have common sense on where and when to fly. Even with a license. It only takes one person to do something stupid and they will ban drones outright.

          Reply
  • March 27, 2018 at 9:34 am
    Permalink

    So just went to ntbc today and there’s a new form to fill out. All in Thai but they are very helpful with it. Not busy at 9am either.

    Reply
    • March 27, 2018 at 12:30 pm
      Permalink

      Is there a way to do it online?

      Reply
      • April 1, 2018 at 6:38 pm
        Permalink

        Yes. You can’t do it all, but you can get all the forms and insurance up to 1 million baht through DJI here: https://www.phantomthailand.com/product/Drone-Insurance

        I just purchased mine, and I will be careful about flying until it’s all handled — but having the receipts and insurance, I think i’m on target.

        Reply
        • April 1, 2018 at 9:22 pm
          Permalink

          That store is nothing to do with DJI, they just make their website look like DJI,
          it’s just a small sore in Siam Discovery that is a DJI reseller.
          I’ve bought two drones from them and they do all the paperwork, but it’s now 6 months wait for each drone CAAT license according to Nut via Line who works at the store

          Reply
          • April 1, 2018 at 10:28 pm
            Permalink

            Thanks for the info, Robert. Now that I have insurance, i’m just going to register at NBTC & start the process with CAAT & smile and play dumb like I always do, being careful to fly in very chill zones like Prachuap Khiri Khan, etc.

  • March 22, 2018 at 12:22 pm
    Permalink

    The Chiang Mai NBTC office DOES NOT accept drone applications. They were accepting them up to January 1, 2018. I was there today with ALL paperwork correctly filled out. They said ALL drone submissions must be made to the Bangkok office. I was trying to register a Mavic Air.

    Reply
  • March 21, 2018 at 4:46 pm
    Permalink

    My experience from today at NBTC Phuket.

    – They asked to see the drone and take their own pictures.
    – The application form seems to be new, so the old one linked here is out of date.

    They were very friendly and there was no queue at all.

    Reply
  • March 20, 2018 at 4:26 pm
    Permalink

    Drones are getting such a bad name, it’s because you can buy $50 ones or cheaper online and people are crashing them everywhere. Serious operators again are punished because of the idiots! It’s only a matter of time before they will be banned worldwide without expensive permits and a lot of red tape.

    Reply
  • March 16, 2018 at 9:32 am
    Permalink

    I did everything via mail, with CAAT, only when licensee is ready they sent it with post office

    Reply
  • March 15, 2018 at 11:43 pm
    Permalink

    Does anyone have any experience registering via email or (through the internet) as a foreigner? More specifically, what do we do with the forms once they’re ready to be submitted?

    Thanks

    Reply
  • March 14, 2018 at 6:48 pm
    Permalink

    Oups ! confused ??? that is not bla bla …
    and I am afraid not to many have aero competency
    Please, follow that and talk after … แผนภาพแสดงเขตพื้นที่ห้ามบังคับหรือปล่อย.kmz
    https://www.caat.or.th/th/archives/20455

    This is communication with official aviation authority…..
    Apiwat Chanrueang 26 janvier 2018 à 17:47
    À : [email protected]
    Cc : Tawika Huayhongtong , Pawat Harnbumrungkit
    Dear sir
    I have received your email and I want to clarify about red area in Google Earth map.
    Red area in Google Earth map is :
    1. Restricted Area, Prohibited Area, and Danger Area that Published in AIP-Thailand ENR 5.1
    2.The area within 5 nautical mile (9 KM.) from airport or temporary airfield (Red circle)
    in case of unable to comply with article 5 of The Announcement of the Ministry of Transport on Rules to Apply for Permission and Conditions to Control and Launch Unmanned Aircraft in the category of Remotely Piloted Aircraft B.E.2558 (attached file) you shall notify Director General in written document (according to article 17)

    Best Regards,

    อภิวัฒน์ จันทร์เรือง
    กองมาตรฐานการจัดการจราจรทางอากาศ
    ฝ่ายมาตรฐานบริการการเดินอากาศ

    Mr Apiwat Chanrueang

    Air Traffic Management Standards Division (TS)
    Air Navigation Services Standards Department (ANS)

    Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT)
    333/103 Moo 4, Laksi Plaza Building, 7th Floor, Kamphaeng Phet 6 Rd.,
    Talat Bang Khen, Laksi, Bangkok 10210 , Thailand
    Website : http://www.caat.or.th , Tel : 02 5688824, email : [email protected]

    Reply
    • March 15, 2018 at 10:41 am
      Permalink

      So what are you trying to say?

      I don’t get what you mean.

      Reply
      • March 15, 2018 at 12:22 pm
        Permalink

        Hi !
        I try to explain you have to much and long discussion about record Drone but nobody talk about Fly condition and operation law reference that is the main point……!!!
        If you want to give some recommendations you have to explain the fly rules where drone Pilot operator can find official prohibited or restricted area from authority the name is MAP AIP 5.1 !!!
        It is why I say to many people are amateur and conscientious drone users in Thailand
        I am very surprise because you have drone and product some movie clearly prohibited in Thailand without specific permission ( professional TV request) the typical example fly on Ayutthaya temple this area is fully closed long time before 2015 the law have been issued …
        Last week somebody say I do not take my drone …… for Ao Nang !!! this area is open by AIP 51 just respect the rule law drone ..
        I am really disappointed by your blog for this subject may be it will be better to manage and inform where people can fly as per rules free and save ….
        Cordially

        Reply
  • March 12, 2018 at 4:15 pm
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    For insurance you are wrong !! for FPV immersive flight is prohibited by authorities
    Request license shall specify region or Province without detail area under regulation MOP / AIP map
    that all !!! My insurance confirm I will be cover for 2 million only if I am flying in accordance with the law 2015 RAP and AIP 51 map (amended ) provided by Authority CAAT
    Sure! to many areas are under restrictions but more free for fly and 98% pilots amateurs do not know the rule restriction !!!!
    Thai people do not respect the law it is historical !!! but Alien must to be carefully about that and
    authority will persecute foreigners as per others Countries USA, France, etc… Because AIP 51 map restriction is an international official document and have juridic power !!!!!!!!!
    Cordially

    Reply
  • March 12, 2018 at 2:45 pm
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    I’ve been in Ao Nang for a month, I didn’t bring my drone because of these rules.
    Most days I’ve seen tourist flying drones right from the beach, in Ao Nang, Railay and on the islands.
    I don’t believe these are registered because they look like tourists fresh off the plane, and it’s difficult to register if you’re not spending a long time here.
    I’ve never seen anyone in authority question or bother anyone flying a drone in the last month, even though they are flying right from the beach without trying to be discreet.
    So I wonder if authorities are really bothered about drone flying away from the cities or sensitive areas.

    Reply
    • March 12, 2018 at 6:07 pm
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      About Ao Nang area …
      it is not under restriction !!!
      So is permitted to fly with respect the RPA Law 2015 off course

      Authority have juridic umbrella by law all is looked …..
      Wait ! we will have an incident or accident and you will see if authorities are committed or not !!!!
      We have the same situation in France or USA and others countries;;;; Thailand do not have for moment an spectacular accident but it will coming soon…. I am sure wait and see !!!
      The risk now is very high and law acknowledge by everybody the fight we start immediately at the first accident believe me
      Thailand is big tourist area and drone commercial market is good it is logic government do not want fight immediately it is an evidence …

      Reply
  • March 12, 2018 at 12:53 pm
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    Just checked the latest CAAT registration form and understood that it allows only fancy stuff like toys to operate.
    You can’t use autopilot systems or long range radio sets to control your drone since it should be visible during the total flight time and take off.
    Flight altitude is limited up to 90 meter only
    Insurance should cover at least 1million baht damage.
    The funniest thing that you should note the exact places you going to flight (UP to 3 place). All other places don’t mention in form license doesn’t cover.

    Together with the long list of restricted areas that includes all beautiful islands and national parks there is no sense to register anything at all here.

    The stupidity of these restrictions make me think that bribe will be the easiest way to solve anything here. no locals going to follow it like it was with pickup trunk people transportation law that formally exists but nobody follows.

    Reply
    • March 12, 2018 at 4:18 pm
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      Hello !
      do you have the famous long list of restricted areas ?

      Reply

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