Roles and power
From the Civil Aviation Authority.
Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT)
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is the primary agency authorized to regulate the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Thai airspace, within the framework of civil aviation law.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is responsible for establishing guidelines, standards, and conditions for the use of drones to ensure safe flight operations that do not affect civil aviation, national security, or public safety.
The role of CAAT encompasses the regulation of drone pilots and unmanned aerial vehicles.
And permission to fly in restricted areas.
Registration of unmanned aerial vehicles.
Step 1: Remote Pilot License
Operators of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) must possess the qualifications and licenses as prescribed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
A drone pilot license is a document demonstrating that the aircraft operator has the knowledge and understanding of safety and can operate the aircraft appropriately and legally.
From January 1, 2025 onwards.
Applying for a drone pilot license must be done online through the CAAT's UAS Portal .
The process consists of:
User registration in the UAS Portal system.
Taking a knowledge test according to the prescribed curriculum.
The exam covers five subject areas based on the aviation and safety knowledge framework.
Candidates must obtain a score of at least 80%.
In case of failing the exam, you can retake it after the period specified by the system.
Once they have passed the exam and received the required drone pilot status.
Therefore, we can proceed to Step 2.
Step 2: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Registration
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that meet the specified criteria must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand before being used.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that require registration include:
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with cameras for recording images or video.
(No exceptions, regardless of size or intended use.)
Unmanned aerial vehicles weighing more than 2 kilograms.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) weighing no more than 25 kilograms.
This requires compliance with additional terms and conditions as specified.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that exceed the specified weight limit.
Special permission must be obtained from the Ministry of Transport.
The purpose of registration is...
Clearly identify the unmanned aerial vehicle.
Identify the owner and manner of use.
Supporting safety and legal accountability governance.
Liability Insurance Requirements
All registered unmanned aerial vehicles.
Third-party liability insurance must be provided.
With coverage amount of not less than 1,000,000 baht.
This insurance is a basic requirement.
To accommodate potential damage to the life, body, or property of third parties.
Order of legal proceedings
Apply for a drone pilot license through the UAS Portal system.
Pass the exam according to the criteria set by CAAT.
Registering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Obtain liability insurance up to the specified amount.
Flight operations are conducted under the conditions and limitations of the flight area.