103 Restricted and restricted areas and dangerous areas in Thai airspace

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Flying in restricted, restricted and dangerous areas in Thai airspace

Understanding Airspace Classification for Safe and Legal Drone Operations

Understanding airspace classifications is crucial for conducting drone operations safely and legally. This guide explores different airspace types, regulations, and tools for accessing detailed flight planning information.

1. Airspace Classification

1.1 Prohibited Areas

• Definition: Specific airspace areas where flying is strictly forbidden.

• Characteristics:

  • Associated with military zones or areas critical to national security.

  • No operations allowed, 24/7, at any altitude.

  • Example: Military installations where drone operations are prohibited without explicit permission.

    
    

1.2 Restricted Areas

• Definition: Airspace where flights are permitted under specific conditions and approvals.

• Examples:

  • VT R1 Bangkok:

    • Restriction Type: High urban traffic density.

    • Radius: 19 km from Victory Monument.

    • Altitude: Ground level to 3,000 feet (914 meters).

  • VT R3 Wang Hin:

    • Restriction Type: Royal residence areas.

    • Radius: 1.85 km.

    • Altitude: Ground level to 6,000 feet (1,828 meters).

    • Active Times: As specified in NOTAM (Notice to Airmen).

      
      

1.3 Danger Areas

• Definition: Airspace where potentially hazardous activities, such as military drills or flight training, may occur.

• Example:

  • VT D41 Mae Rim, Chiang Mai:

    • Restriction Type: Air Force flight training.

    • Active Times: Monday to Friday, 08:00–21:00 (GMT+7).

    • Altitude: Ground level to unlimited (UNL).

    • Contact: Wing 41, Phone: 0 2534 6000.

      
      

2. Key Details for Safe Operations

• Airspace sizes and restrictions are published in the Aeronautical Information Publications (AIPs).

• Access the latest details via the CAAT AIP Portal.

3. Tools for Identifying No-Fly Zones

Option 1: Google Earth

1. Download the no-fly zone data file (Download here).

2. Import the file into Google Earth Pro to visualize no-fly zones and plan accordingly.

   
   

Option 2: CAAT AIP Database

1. Visit CAAT AIP.

2. Navigate to Section 2 - Enroute (ENR) and select ENR 5.1 for Prohibited, Restricted, and Danger Areas.

3. Review the relevant zones and related information.

   
   

4. Examples of Prohibited, Restricted, and Danger Areas

1. VT P38 Koh Chang – Koh Kut (Prohibited Area):

   • Restriction Type: Royal Thai Navy area.

   • Active Times: Sunset to sunrise.

   • Altitude: Ground level to 5,000 feet.

   • Contact: Chanthaburi-Trat Border Protection Command, Tel. 039 312334, 31109.

   
   

2. VT R1 Bangkok (Restricted Area):

   • Details as mentioned above.

3. VT D41 Mae Rim (Danger Area):

   • Details as mentioned above.

     
     

5. Permission Requests

For operations in restricted or danger areas:

1. Contact the responsible agency for initial permission.

2. Submit required documents to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), including:

   • Flight plan details.

   • Drone pilot license.

   • Insurance proof.

   • Authorization letter from the area owner.

   • Safety assessments and operational procedures.

     
     

Responsible Drone Flying

Drone operators can ensure safe and legal operations by understanding airspace classifications and using tools like Google Earth and the CAAT AIP portal. Always check airspace restrictions along your flight path to avoid penalties and enhance safety.

Tip: Stay informed, fly responsibly, and respect the shared airspace.

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Source: CAAT/UAV | Edited by: Instructor Dang © 2024