Thailand is a popular tourist destination, and many tourists bring their drones with them to capture stunning aerial photos and videos. However, there are a number of rules and regulations that tourists need to be aware of before flying their drones in Thailand.
Drone Laws in Thailand
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) regulates the use of drones in Thailand. The CAAT has issued a number of regulations for drone flight operations, and some highlights of these regulations are listed below:
- Drones must be registered with the CAAT.
- Drones must be flown below 90 meters.
- Drones must not be flown in or near restricted areas, official facilities, or hospitals.
- Drones must not be flown within 9 kilometers of an airport.
- Drones must always be kept in line of sight.
- Drones must not be flown over people, buildings, or vehicles.
Violation of any CAAT policies may be punished by to up to one-year imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 THB, or both.
Tips for Tourists Flying Drones in Thailand
If you are planning to fly a drone in Thailand, there are a few things you can do to stay safe and legal:
- Register your drone with the CAAT.
- Learn about the local drone laws and regulations.
- Be aware of the restricted areas in Thailand.
- Always fly your drone in line of sight.
- Do not fly your drone over people, buildings, or vehicles.
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your drone flight in Thailand is safe and legal.
Recent Incidents
In recent years, there have been a number of incidents involving tourists flying drones in Thailand. In some cases, these incidents have resulted in injuries or damage to property.
In 2019, a tourist flying a drone in Phuket crashed into a power line, causing a power outage. In 2020, a tourist flying a drone in Bangkok crashed into a building, injuring several people.
These incidents have highlighted the need for tourists to be aware of the risks associated with flying drones in Thailand. If you are planning to fly a drone in Thailand, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure that your flight is safe and legal.
Conclusion
Drones can be a great way to capture stunning aerial photos and videos of Thailand. However, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations before you fly your drone. By following the tips in this article, you can help to ensure that your drone flight in Thailand is safe and legal.
