Thailand Drone Restricted Airspace – National Security & Safety Rules
Certain areas in Thailand are designated as No-Fly Zones (NFZs) to protect national security, public safety, and the environment. Flying in these zones without CAAT approval is illegal and can result in severe penalties.
CAAT Official Announcement on Airspace Restrictions in Thailand
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) defines prohibited (VTP), restricted (VTR), and danger areas (VTD). Drone operators must comply with these airspace classifications, which may also involve Royal Thai Air Force clearance.
Oleg V. Belyakov - AirTeamImages / Saab JAS 39 Gripen
What Are VTP, VTR, and VTD Zones?
Issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), effective 17 March 2020
Subject: Designation of Prohibited Areas (VTP), Restricted Areas (VTR), and Danger Areas (VTD)
In accordance with ICAO Annex 2: Rules of the Air, Thailand classifies controlled airspace into three categories:
VTP – Prohibited Area
An airspace of defined dimensions, above land areas or territorial waters, where the flight of aircraft is strictly prohibited at all times.
Example: Royal palaces, military command centers.
VTR – Restricted Area
An airspace of defined dimensions where flights are restricted and only allowed under certain specified conditions with prior approval.
Example: Bangkok (VTR1 – 19 km radius around Victory Monument), some RTAF operational zones.
VTD – Danger Area
An airspace of defined dimensions within which activities dangerous to the flight of aircraft may occur at specified times. Flight may be permitted, but only with caution and subject to approval.
Example: Surat Thani (Koh Samui area), coastal training zones.
Note for Drone Operators:
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Flights in VTP areas are completely forbidden.
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Flights in VTR areas require advance CAAT approval and sometimes additional clearance from the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) or other local authorities.
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Flights in VTD areas may be possible during non-active periods, but operators must check the CAAT UAS Portal (uasportal.caat.or.th) for up-to-date clearance and schedules.
CAAT Temporary No-Fly Zone – Thailand–Cambodia Border (2025)
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued a temporary no-fly zone along the Thailand–Cambodia border. This airspace restriction is in force throughout 2025 for national security and safety reasons. Drone operations in this area are strictly prohibited without explicit CAAT authorization.
Reason for Restriction
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Military exercises and security operations along the border require strict airspace control. Unauthorized drone flights may interfere with safety operations.
Enforcement & Penalties
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Violations of this temporary restriction may result in heavy fines, drone confiscation, or criminal charges under Thai aviation law.
Download Official Document:
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Drone_Prohibition_Thailand_2025 Thailand–Cambodia Border (PDF)
Illustration only – Example of Thai military anti-drone enforcement in restricted zones.
Map from the CAAT Announcement:
Prohibition of Flying or Releasing Unmanned Aircraft (Drones) in Areas That May Affect National Security During the Thailand–Cambodia Border Situation (Edition 6), Issued 16 September 2025
Restricted Provinces (Operation Areas):
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Sa Kaeo
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Buriram
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Surin
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Si Sa Ket
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Ubon Ratchathani
Additional Concerned Areas:
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Koh Kut District, Trat
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Mueang District, Rayong
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Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan
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Mueang District, Ratchaburi
Affected Airports (45 in total, nationwide) – examples include:
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Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok)
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Don Mueang Airport (Bangkok)
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U-Tapao Airport (Rayong)
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Chiang Mai Airport
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Phuket Airport
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Ubon Ratchathani Airport
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Hat Yai Airport
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Mae Sot Airport
(and many more – see full CAAT announcement for complete list)
Warning — No-Fly Zones Under Military Control
Flying a drone inside or near restricted military areas in Thailand is strictly prohibited. These zones are protected with anti-drone defense systems operated by the military and security forces. Such systems may be activated without prior warning, resulting in your drone being disabled, confiscated, and reported to authorities.
Violators face severe penalties, including heavy fines, detention, and possible imprisonment under Thai law. Tourists must check NFZ maps, avoid restricted areas, and obtain proper permits before flying.
Do not attempt to fly in or around military zones.
⚠️ Warning for Drone Operators
Before every flight, you must check your location and submit a flight plan through the CAAT UAS Portal
Approval is required before operating in any VTR, VTP, or VTD zones. Flying without approval is illegal and subject to severe penalties.
How to Apply for Drone Flight Permissions via CAAT UAS Portal
“To fly drones near airports, cities, or restricted airspace, drone operators must submit an online application via the CAAT UAS Portal. This ensures safe, legal, and fully authorized drone operations in Thailand.”
Steps:
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Check your planned flight location against official CAAT & NBTC maps.
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Identify if the zone requires special approval (e.g., NFZ, military, National Park).
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Submit application to CAAT with pilot license, insurance, and drone serial number.
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Wait for CAAT flight approval before flying.
Bangkok Drone No-Fly Zones (CAAT Restricted Airspace)
Bangkok is a strict NFZ covering royal palaces, government compounds, and major landmarks. VTR 1 restricts all drone flights within 19 km of Victory Monument.
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VTR 1 – 19 KM Restricted Zone from Victory Monument
"No drone flights are allowed in this zone without CAAT approval."
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Do You Need Approval?
Drone operators must apply for approval through the CAAT UAS Portal before flying in or near Bangkok NFZs. Even with insurance and NBTC registration, operating without CAAT authorization is prohibited.
Explore Thailand’s Drone Restricted Zones (VTR, VTD, VTP) in Popular Tourist Areas
Many of Thailand’s most famous tourist destinations — including Bangkok, Hua Hin, Ko Tao, Samui, Kanchanaburi, Rayong, and Ko Chang — fall under restricted drone airspace. These zones are regulated by CAAT, the Royal Thai Air Force, and the Royal Thai Navy. Before flying, drone operators must understand the restrictions, operating hours, and approval requirements to avoid legal penalties.
“Install Google Earth Pro and click the map icons to explore sample VTR, VTD, and VTP restricted zones across Thailand. This guide is provided as a complementary service to help you plan safe and legal drone operations, avoiding accidental violations that could lead to serious penalties.
We care about your operation and compliance. If you still have questions or need tailored advice, feel free to email Danny directly for further support.”
VTR 1 Zone: Restricted coverage within a 19 km radius centered on Victory Monument, Bangkok
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Type of restriction : Congested Area
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Nature of hazard/activity : -
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Time of acitivity : H24
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Permission to entry : Only authorized aircraft by CAAT
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Inflight information : Don Mueang or Bangkok Approch
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Contact agency : CAAT, Flight formalities department
VTD20 HUA HIN
Type of restriction : Civil Flight Training Area
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Nature of hazard/activity : Flight school training
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Time of activity : Sunrise to Sunset
VTD25 KO TAO, CHUMPHON
Type of restriction : RTN Weapon Training Range for surface ships and aircraft
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Nature of hazard/activity : Military operations
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Time of activity : Notified by NOTAM
VTD59, VTD60, and VTD61, Surat Thani, Samui, Pha Ngan Island. Combined with VTD25 KO TAO, CHUMPHON
Type of restriction :
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RTAF Flying Training
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Nature of hazard/activity : High speed combat manoeuvring
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Time of activity : MON - FRI, 2300-1700
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Pilots are advised to contact prior to entering.
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Contact agency : Wing 7 Air Traffic Control branch, Tel. +662 534 6000 ext 65556, 6551
VTD67 Kanchanaburi:
Type of restriction :
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RTA Flying Training
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Nature of hazard/activity : Military operations
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Time of activity : Notified by NOTAM
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Inflight information : Kanchanaburi Tower
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Pilots are advised to contact prior to entering.
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Contact agency : Air Operation Division, Tel. +662 280 2499
VTD72 BANGKOK, NONTHABURI, NAKHON PATHOM, SUPHANBURI
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Type of restriction : RTAF Flying Training
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Nature of hazard/activity : High speed combat manoeuvring
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Time of activity : MON - FRI, 2300-1500
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Pilots are advised to contact prior to entering.
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Contact agency : 604 Squadron, Tel. +662 534 6000 ext 22553
VTR62 EASTERN AREA
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Type of restriction : RTN Area
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Nature of hazard/activity : Military operations
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Time of activity : Sunset to Sunrise
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Permission to entry : Only authorized aircraft by RTN
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Contact agency : Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command, Tel. +663 931 2334, +663 931 1099
VTR13 KO SAMET, RAYONG
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Type of restriction : RTN Jettison Area / Ground Gunnery Area
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Nature of hazard/activity : Military operations
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Time of activity : H24
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Permission to entry : Only authorized aircraft by U-Tapao
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Contact agency : Royal Thai Naval Air Division, Tel. +663 824 5193, +663 824 5196
VTD24 KO CHANG, TRAT
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Type of restriction : RTN Gun Training Range for surface ships and aircraft
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Nature of hazard/activity : Military operations
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Time of activity : Notified by NOTAM
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Pilots are advised to contact prior to entering.
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Contact agency : Royal Thai Naval Air Division, Tel. +663 824 5193, +663 824 5196
VTD30–VTD32 (Nakhon Ratchasima & Lop Buri) – RTAF Nakhon Ratchasima Flying Training Areas
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Time of activity: MON–FRI, 2300–1000
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Inflight information:
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Contact agency:
Wing 1 Air Traffic Control Branch, Tel. +662 534 6000 ext. 40555, 40556
VTD31 – Lop Buri Flying Training Areas
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Time of activity: MON–FRI, 2200–1700
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Inflight information:
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Contact agency:
Wing 2 Air Traffic Control Branch, Tel. +662 534 6000 ext. 50520
Drone Rules in Thailand’s National Parks
Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, Phang Nga Bay National Park – Drone flights in this area require official permission from the Department of National Parks.
All national parks are No-Fly Zones unless operators obtain special permits. Unauthorized flights may result in fines or suspension of activities.
Drone Flights in National Parks
All drone operations require prior approval. Park officials have full authority to inspect and take enforcement action. Regulations distinguish between two cases:
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Personal / Non-Commercial Recording – Permission must be obtained from the Chief of the respective National Park.
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Commercial Recording / Public Distribution – Applications must be submitted to the Film and Special Events Permission Division of the DNP.
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Submit an official request to the Department of National Parks.
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Follow designated zones, altitude limits, and time restrictions.
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Do not disturb wildlife, the environment, or other visitors.
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Flying near wildlife or strictly protected zones.
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Conducting commercial operations without explicit authorization.
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Violating aviation laws under CAAT.
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Proof of NBTC drone registration and a valid CAAT permit.
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Operate only in permitted areas and timeframes.
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Submit flight activity reports to park authorities.
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Permit Required: Mandatory for all drone flights in National & Marine Parks.
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Processing Time: Average 3–7 working days.
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Method: Online via DNP portal or at the park office.
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Documents Needed: Passport, CAAT Drone Pilot License, CAAT Drone Certification, NBTC Certification, Insurance.
National Park Drone Permit Application
Download: Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park (PDF)
Phi Phi Islands The Phi Phi Islands, part of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, are world-famous for their twin bays: Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay. These iconic views are popular for drone photography, but the entire area is a No-Fly Zone (NFZ) under Thai law.
Download: Ao Phang Nga National Park (PDF)
Ao Phang Nga National Park Ao Phang Nga National Park, established in 1981, protects the dramatic limestone cliffs, caves, and emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay. The park spans over forty islands, each with unique landscapes and cultural heritage. Highlights include the towering cliffs of Khao Phing Kan and Ko Ta Pu (popularly known as James Bond Island), the lagoons and caves of Ko Hong, the twin islets of Ko Nom Sao, and the fishing community of the Koh Panyee floating village. These, together with many other islands and karst formations, make the park one of Thailand’s most iconic seascapes. As with other national parks in Thailand, any drone operation within the area requires prior approval from the Department of National Parks and relevant aviation authorities.
Download: Mu Ko Similan National Park (PDF)
Mu Ko Similan National Park Mu Ko Similan National Park, established in 1982, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and diverse marine life. The park consists of eleven islands in the Andaman Sea, celebrated worldwide as one of the best destinations for scuba divers and snorkelers. Granite boulders, coral reefs, and abundant tropical fish make the Similans a premier site for underwater exploration and nature tourism. As with other national parks in Thailand, drone flights require prior approval from the Department of National Parks and aviation authorities.
"National Geographic Society ranked the Similan Islands as “One of the Top 10 dive destinations to visit in the World”. Spotting might Manta Rays & Whale sharks basking around the massive boulders is truly a spectacular sight."
Download: Khao Sok National Park (PDF)
Khao Sok National Park Established in 1980, Khao Sok is one of Thailand’s most famous national parks, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, dense rainforest, and Cheow Lan Lake with its floating raft houses. The park is home to elephants, hornbills, gibbons, and the rare Rafflesia flower. It offers eco-tourism, trekking, canoeing, and wildlife exploration in one of the world’s oldest evergreen rainforests.
Apply with Our Service – Quick & Easy
Permit Requirements for Filming & Photography
Filming or photography for commercial purposes (movies, documentaries, advertising, or professional projects) inside Thailand’s National Parks requires prior authorization from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).
Application Process
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Step 1: Register and submit application online via the DNP permit portal or through the park office.
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Step 2: Provide supporting documents (passport/company certificate, applicant ID, crew list, equipment list).
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Step 3: DNP staff review and issue an approval or rejection.
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Step 4: Pay applicable fees.
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Step 5: Receive permit before filming.
Required Documents
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ID or passport copy of applicant and crew
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Company registration (if applicable)
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Project details (storyboard, purpose, shooting schedule, locations)
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List of equipment (cameras, drones, lighting, sound gear)
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Proof of drone registration with CAAT/NBTC, insurance certificate
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For foreign productions: letter of guarantee or endorsement from Thai authorities
Permit Fees (per film crew / per day)
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Registered in Thailand: 2,000 THB/day
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Foreign production companies: 2,000 THB/day
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Applies equally to still photography, video, or documentary work
⚠️ Important: Special insurance or bank guarantee may be required for large productions to cover potential damages.
Key Reminder
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All National Parks are No-Fly Zones (NFZs). Drones may only be operated with explicit written permission.
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Unauthorized commercial filming may result in fines, suspension of activities, or legal action.
👉 Apply via DNP Permit Portal