Flying drones in Thailand is regulated by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). The drone pilot must be at least 20 years old, and all drones need to be registered with the NBTC. Drones are prohibited from flying in certain areas like royal palaces, military bases, and airports. It is also essential to maintain a distance of at least 9 km away from airports.
Foreigners need special permits to fly drones in Thailand. The process involves obtaining permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the interested party's respective embassy in Bangkok. It is crucial to check the latest regulations concerning drone flights for visitors to Thailand to avoid any legal issues.
There are restrictions on the type of drones that can be flown in Thailand. Drones over 2 kilograms require a permit. Also, drones equipped with cameras need to adhere to strict privacy guidelines, and surveillance drones are strictly prohibited. Violating these restrictions can result in fines or imprisonment.
Penalties for violating drone laws in Thailand can be severe. It is crucial to be aware of the regulations to avoid legal issues. Individuals caught flying drones without the necessary permits or in restricted areas can face fines, imprisonment, or confiscation of the drone.