Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR)
in Thailand
Temporary Flight Restrictions are special airspace limitations issued for safety, national security, major events, VIP movements, disasters, or emergency operations. All drone operators must verify current TFR status before every flight. Operations within an active TFR without authorization are strictly prohibited.
What Are Temporary Flight Restrictions
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is an airspace limitation enforced for a defined period due to national security, aviation safety, or emergency operations. TFR zones override all other permissions, including CAAT, NBTC, or local park approvals.
Key Characteristics Include:
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Issued for safety, security, or emergency needs
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Time-limited and location-specific
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Mandatory compliance for all drones
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Override all other flight permissions
Example CAAT Security-Based TFR
In December 2025, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) issued a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) covering selected areas along the Thai–Cambodian border due to national security concerns.
The restriction was implemented to prevent unauthorized aerial activity and to support coordinated security operations in sensitive border areas.
Scope of the Restriction
During the effective period:
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All drone flights were prohibited within the designated area
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The restriction applied to recreational, commercial, and professional operations
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Existing registrations, pilot licenses, insurance, or prior permissions did not override the TFR
Operator Responsibility
Drone operators were required to:
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Monitor official CAAT notices
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Verify airspace status before every flight
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Immediately suspend operations when a TFR was declared
Violations were subject to enforcement under Thai aviation and national security regulations.
Common Situations When TFRs Are Declared
TFRs are issued when the airspace requires temporary protection or operational control. They may be planned events or sudden declarations.
Key Situations Include:
• Royal or VIP movements
• Nationwide events and ceremonies
• Aviation safety incidents or investigations
• Disaster response, rescue missions, or wildfire operations
• Military exercises or national security operations
• Weather-related hazards impacting aviation safety
How TFRs Affect Drone Operations
When a TFR is active, the restricted area becomes a no-fly zone for all drones regardless of prior approval. All CAAT flight permissions, national park permits, historical park permits, and any local authorizations are automatically suspended.
Key Impacts Include:
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All drone flights are prohibited within an active TFR
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No exceptions for tourism, hobby, or commercial operations
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Existing CAAT approvals do not override TFRs
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Operations must cease immediately when a TFR becomes active
How to Check Active TFRs Before Flying
Drone operators must verify TFR status before each flight. TFR information may change without prior notice and is strictly time-sensitive.
Key Methods Include:
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CAAT UAS Portal and official announcements
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Aeronautical NOTAMs and aviation safety notices
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Emergency or security-related CAAT notifications
Advisory:
TFR status must be verified immediately before each flight, as conditions may change without prior notice.
Typical TFR Announcements in Thailand
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Issued by CAAT via official notifications
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May be nationwide or location-specific
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Effective immediately upon publication
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Duration may be fixed or open-ended
Penalties for Flying Inside a TFR
Flying a drone inside a Temporary Flight Restriction zone is a serious violation under aviation and national security law.
Key Penalties Include:
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Administrative penalties and fines
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Confiscation of aircraft and equipment
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Suspension or revocation of licenses
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Criminal charges under aviation or security laws
Always Verify Airspace Status Before Every Flight
Temporary Flight Restrictions override all other flight permissions. Drone operators are responsible for verifying airspace status before every operation. Failure to comply may result in severe legal consequences.
Related No-Fly Zones & Restrictions
Depending on your flight location, additional restrictions may apply. Review related categories below: