Before You Fly in Thailand
This page outlines the mandatory checks and responsibilities that must be completed before each drone flight in Thailand, even after registration and documentation have been completed.
Completion of registration, licensing, insurance, and NBTC compliance does not automatically authorize a flight.
Flight Authorization Requirement
In Thailand, drone operations are regulated on a per-flight basis.
Each flight must be assessed individually based on:
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Flight location
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Date and time of operation
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Applicable airspace restrictions
Responsibility for verifying flight authorization rests with the individual operator.
CAAT UAS Portal (Operational Use)
The CAAT UAS Portal operates under two distinct functions:
The web-based portal is used for administrative purposes, including pilot licensing and aircraft registration.
The mobile application is used for operational control, including:
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Checking flight areas
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Submitting flight requests
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Receiving authorization status
Only the mobile application is used for flight authorization.
System Status Interpretation
A green status indicates authorization for the specified flight location, date, and time.
Operations may proceed in accordance with applicable operational limitations.
A red status indicates that authorization has not been granted.
The system will specify the required next action.
Additional coordination with relevant authorities may be required depending on airspace classification.
Operation of an unmanned aircraft without authorization is not permitted.
Where Additional Restrictions May Apply
In addition to CAAT flight authorization, certain locations may require separate permission from other authorities.
These include, but are not limited to:
Operators are responsible for verifying all applicable restrictions prior to flight.
Operator Responsibility
Operational compliance remains the responsibility of the operator.
The operator must ensure that:
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All mandatory documents remain valid
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Flight authorization is verified before each flight
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Approved conditions and limitations are observed at all times
TDS provides services related to registration, insurance, and regulatory compliance support.
Flight authorization requests and flight decisions are not managed by TDS.
Summary
Possession of mandatory documents confirms eligibility.
Flight authorization confirms legality of operation.
Authorization must be obtained through the CAAT UAS Portal mobile application before each flight.
For information on specific flight locations and area-based restrictions, refer to the Where You Can Fly section.