Thailand relaxes drone ban for agriculture but keeps strict limits on other uses

Following the nationwide ban on the use of drones, from today drones used in agriculture will be allowed to operate, but only during daylight hours, and operators must seek permission to fly their drones 12 hours in advance.

The ban on all other types of unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, remains in place until, at the earliest, this Friday or until further notice.

The ban, imposed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and announced on August 8, prohibits the flying of drones anywhere in the country for aviation safety and security reasons, amid tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border.

Operators using drones for agricultural purposes must meet several requirements, including that the operator and the drone must have valid certification and they must have no record of violating drone regulations or have had their permits revoked.

Flights are only permitted between 6am and 6pm, at a maximum altitude of 30 metres and only over the operator’s own farmland or with the landowner’s consent.

Flight notification must be submitted at least 12 hours in advance via the CAAT UAS Portal website, its mobile application, email to antidrone.police@gmail.com, or through local police, village headmen or sub-district chiefs.

Drones may only be used for spraying or distributing organic, inorganic or chemical substances, water or fertiliser for agricultural purposes. Aerial photography or surveying is prohibited.

Offenders face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both upon conviction.

Authorities are permitted to destroy or intercept drones and to use counter-drone systems.

For inquiries or to report violations, contact the CAAT on 02-568-8851 during office hours or email uas_us@caat.or.th.

Reports can also be made to the National Anti-Drone Centre on 02-126-7846 or at antidrone.police@gmail.com, as well as to local police, military units or security agencies.