Destination guide · Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) + NBTC

Flying a drone in Thailand

HardBased on secondary sources, last reviewed 2026-06-12

A legal path exists but needs in-country signup with a Thai SIM, dual CAAT + NBTC registration, mandatory insurance and a knowledge test.

Can a tourist register?

Yes. Registration is only possible after arrival: the portal account requires an immigration entry stamp and a Thai SIM for OTP, plus a built-in 80% knowledge assessment. Paid concierge services exist.

Key limits

RegistrationRequired from 250 g

Altitude limit90 m

Test / trainingCAAT portal knowledge assessment, 80% pass mark, part of registration.

InsuranceThird-party liability of at least 1,000,000 THB is mandatory for all operators, including hobbyists (Thai-authorized insurer).

ANY drone with a camera must be registered regardless of weight; drones over 250 g without a camera must also register. Dual agency (CAAT + NBTC). Portal: CAAT UAS Portal + separate NBTC radio registration.

Customs & entry

A drone may be brought in; the offence is flying unregistered. NBTC violations carry up to a 100,000 THB fine and/or 5 years in prison. Since 2026-02-06 drones are banned in the Cambodian-border provinces, including Koh Chang and Koh Kood.

Sources

Confidence: medium

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This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change — always verify with Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) + NBTC before flying. FlyCheck covers national rules only; local restrictions (airports, parks, cities) also apply. Enforcement varies by airport, officer, and week. Based on official advisories and traveler reports as of 2026-06-12. Penalties can include confiscation, fines, and in some countries criminal charges. When in doubt, leave the drone at home.