What you need before flying

Step Body Which drone
Registration of the equipment and radio frequency NBTC (anyregis.nbtc.go.th) All drones
Registration of the drone, operator and pilot CAAT (portal uasportal.caat.or.th) Drones with a camera or over 2 kg
Third-party liability insurance Insurer of your choice All flights; one blog cites at least 1 million baht of cover, in English (unofficial)

The old CAAT site closed on 30 June 2025: only the UAS portal works. These rules come from the tourism authority (TAT) website and blogs; confirm them with the authorities before leaving.

Where not to fly

General rules ban flying near airports, crowds, royal palaces, military bases and in sensitive areas; the height limit is 90 m (300 ft) according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) 2025 guide, beyond that you need authorisation through the civil aviation (CAAT) UAS portal. Several national parks and beaches also restrict drones: ask at the park office. In Phuket, avoid the airport surroundings and crowded beaches.

Fines

A February 2026 blog mentions fines up to 40,000 baht (CAAT) and 100,000 baht (NBTC), with confiscation and deportation in serious cases. No official source confirmed these amounts: the risk is real, do not fly without registration.

No drone? Aerial views another way

If the procedures are too long, a boat trip also gives great views: for example Phang Nga Bay by speedboat or the Samet Nangshe viewpoint. See also before going to Phuket: laws and safety.

FAQ

Do you need to register a small drone?

Yes: the NBTC requires registration of all drones; the CAAT adds to it for drones with a camera or over 2 kg.

Can you register once you arrive in Thailand?

The procedures are online; allow time and do them before leaving.

Does a tourist need insurance?

Yes, according to the Thai tourism authority: registration, insurance and flight authorisation go together.

Can you fly a drone on the beach?

Not on a crowded beach or near an airport; check local rules and those of the national park.