Three men attempting to feed fish cages in a reservoir encountered disaster when the rope snapped and the cage drifted far from shore. After jumping into the water to retrieve it, one man drowned while two survived. At 8:00 AM on June 29, 2025, Navy SEAL Team 31 from Nakhon Ratchasima and diving personnel resumed search operations in Mueang Bun Reservoir, Crathum District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Previous search efforts the day before had been hampered by heavy rain, strong winds, waves, and powerful currents, leading rescuers to suspend operations at approximately 6:00 PM without locating the missing person.

According to community leaders, three residents went to feed the fish cages in Mueang Bun Reservoir when the rope tether broke, causing the cage to detach from the main raft and drift away. All three men jumped into the water to retrieve the rope and bring the cage back to shore. However, due to strong winds and currents, the cage drifted more than 200 meters away. Despite their efforts to pull it back, they were unsuccessful as it continued drifting further. They decided to swim back to shore.

People on shore saw them struggling and quickly launched a motorized boat to assist. However, one man, identified as Somchai, 48 years old, lost strength and drowned before reaching shore. Only two men could be rescued. After failing to locate the third man, they alerted police and rescue personnel.

Today, authorities discovered Somchai's body floating face-down on the water's surface, wearing only shorts. With the reservoir water level significantly depleted, it is believed his body was swept approximately 400-500 meters from the drowning location and became caught on a sand bar approximately 100 meters from shore.

Deputy Superintendent Prinyah Chop Sueng Noen of Crathum Police Station ordered the body brought to shore and transported to Crathum Hospital for forensic autopsy to determine the exact cause of death before releasing it to relatives for religious rites.

Ubon Ratchathani, a key province in Northeast Thailand with significant economic, agricultural, tourism, and border trade potential, faces ongoing water resource management challenges due to its location at the confluence of the Chi and Mun rivers before flowing into the Mekong. The convergence of these waterways combined with community expansion and land use changes incompatible with seasonal water flow patterns has resulted in recurring floods in low-lying areas of the Mun River basin.

Following the catastrophic 2011 floods that severely impacted Ubon Ratchathani's economy, utilities, transportation infrastructure, and agricultural areas, the Royal Irrigation Department has studied and designed a comprehensive water management approach through the "Ubon Ratchathani Flood Mitigation Project" to resolve recurring flooding and prepare for future climate variations.

Pichert Ratanaprasetkul, director of the Royal Irrigation Department's Engineering Design and Architecture Office, revealed on June 26, 2025 that the project is currently in the survey and detailed design phase, emphasizing the importance of academic data, public participation, and input from all sectors to ensure the development approach aligns with local conditions and genuine community needs.

"Modern water management is not merely about flood control," Ratanaprasetkul stated, "but must address long-term water security, ecosystem balance, agricultural support, community welfare, and adaptation to ongoing climate change."

The project encompasses areas in Khon Kaen (Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province) and six districts in Ubon Ratchathani (Warin Chamrap, Sawang Virawong, Na Yiao, Pibulmangsahan, and Sirindhon), all interconnected within the Mun River basin.

The project components include:

1. Main water diversion canal spanning 86.84 km, receiving water from Huai Khayung and discharging into the Mun River below Saphue Rapid. This is divided into two segments: Segment 1 (9.68 km) from Huai Khayung to Huai Phap with capacity of at least 400 cubic meters per second, and Segment 2 (77.16 km) from Huai Phap to the Mun River with capacity of at least 1,200 cubic meters per second.

2. Secondary water diversion canal spanning 5.20 km, drawing water from the Mun River below Huai Na Dam and discharging at least 800 cubic meters per second.

3. Five water gates and regulation structures along the diversion canals.

4. Ninety-two structures including 42 intake works, 22 discharge structures, 20 vehicle bridges, 5 water bridges, 2 culverts, and 1 railroad bridge.

The Royal Irrigation Department has contracted PSTG JV to conduct the survey and design phases of the project.

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Bangkok, 29 June 2026, 14.30 Hrs. GMT+7 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) advises visitors that drone operations are now permitted in most areas of Thailand, provided operators are properly registered and comply with Thai aviation rules.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued Notice No. 16 on drone operations in areas that may affect national security during the Thai–Cambodian border situation. The notice, effective from 26 June 2026 until further notice, further relaxes special drone restrictions following continued assessment with national security agencies.

For visitors, this means drone use is generally possible in most destinations nationwide, but only after proper registration, insurance, and flight approval. Restrictions remain in selected border districts where security-related measures are still required.

Drone operations remain prohibited in controlled districts in seven border provinces, except where specifically approved by CAAT for limited purposes.

Controlled districts where drone flights remain restricted

– Ubon Ratchathani: Khemarat, Na Tan, Pho Sai, Si Mueang Mai, Khong Chiam, Sirindhorn, Buntharik, Na Chaluai, and Nam Yuen Districts– Si Sa Ket: Phu Sing, Khun Han, and Kantharalak Districts– Surin: Phanom Dong Rak, Kap Choeng, Sangkha, and Bua Chet Districts– Buri Ram: Lahan Sai and Ban Kruat Districts– Sa Kaeo: Khlong Hat, Aranyaprathet, Khok Sung, and Ta Phraya Districts– Chanthaburi: Mueang Chanthaburi, Soi Dao, and Pong Nam Ron Districts– Trat: Mueang Trat, Khlong Yai, and Bo Rai Districts

In these controlled districts, CAAT may consider specific permission for drone operations related to agriculture, disaster prevention and relief, urgent action to prevent damage to life or property, or authorised law-enforcement duties by government agencies. Such operations must also receive approval from the area owner or responsible local authority and comply with all conditions set by CAAT.

Requirements for visitors operating drones

Visitors who wish to fly a drone in Thailand must ensure that both the drone and operator are properly registered and authorised under Thai law before any flight. Requirements include operator registration, aircraft registration stating the purpose of use, compulsory insurance, and flight approval through the UAS Portal before each operation.

Flight details, including the area, date, time, and purpose, must be submitted to CAAT at least three days in advance through the UAS Portal: uasportal.caat.or.th. Operators must also notify the Anti-Drone Centre, Metropolitan Police Bureau, by email at antidrone.police@gmail.com before each approved flight.

Drone flights must comply with all conditions stated in the CAAT approval and other applicable Thai drone regulations. Visitors should also check airport-related rules, national park requirements, local restrictions, and any site-specific conditions before flying.

In the controlled districts listed above, recreational or tourism-related drone flights are not generally permitted unless specifically authorised by CAAT and the relevant area owner or responsible agency.

Government agency operations

Military, police, customs, agriculture, natural resources and environment, and intelligence agencies may operate drones under their legal mandate. Where required, government agencies operating in controlled areas must notify CAAT, the Anti-Drone Centre, local security units, and relevant area owners or responsible authorities in advance.

Reporting violations

Violations are punishable by imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 40,000 Baht, or both. Authorised military or security agencies may also take enforcement action against drones that violate the notice, including the use of anti-drone systems where necessary.

Members of the public may report unlawful drone activity by providing the date, time, location, drone description, and any available photos or videos to one of the following channels:

– CAAT – Unmanned Aircraft Standards and Technology DivisionTel: +66 (0) 2568 8851 | Email: uas_us@caat.or.th

– Anti-Drone Centre, Metropolitan Police BureauTel: +66 (0) 2126 7846 | Email: antidrone.police@gmail.com

– Local security units, including the nearest police station, military base, or relevant authority

CAAT continues to monitor the situation with national security agencies to ensure that drone regulation remains appropriate, while balancing public and business use with national security and safety requirements. Visitors planning to use drones in Thailand are advised to check the latest CAAT guidance before each flight and strictly follow all approval conditions.

Essential Drone Registration and Flight Rules in Thailand

As drone technology becomes more advanced and accessible, many travellers bring drones to capture aerial views of their destinations. With its natural beauty and cultural landmarks, Thailand is a prime location for drone photography. However, flying a drone in Thailand is governed by strict legal requirements.

All drones—officially classified as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles—must be registered and operated in full compliance with national aviation regulations. Violations may result in fines, imprisonment, or confiscation of equipment.

This guide outlines the key procedures and legal obligations for registering and flying drones lawfully in Thailand.

Import and Registration Requirements

Drones may be brought into Thailand but cannot be operated legally until registered with both the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).

The NBTC handles drone ownership and radio frequency registration via anyregis.nbtc.go.th. CAAT manages registration for both the drone and its operator and issues the required drone pilot certificate via the UAS Portal: uasportal.caat.or.th.

Registration with a single agency alone is insufficient. Both NBTC and CAAT registration are mandatory for the legal operation of drones.

Which Drones Require Registration

All drones must be registered with NBTC, regardless of weight or use.

CAAT registration is additionally required for drones equipped with cameras or recording devices, drones weighing over two kilograms but under twenty-five kilograms, and all drones exceeding twenty-five kilograms. The latter must also receive written approval from the Minister of Transport.

Pre-Flight Procedures and Certification

Before operating a drone in Thailand, operators are encouraged to review applicable regulations and complete CAAT’s online knowledge test through the UAS Portal. Though optional in some cases, the test ensures familiarity with Thai airspace rules.

Drones must be insured with third-party liability coverage of at least one million Thai Baht. Insurance may be arranged locally or abroad.

Upon arrival in Thailand, a Thai SIM card is required to initiate registration via the UAS Portal. The process includes account creation, identity verification via a one-time password, and submission of documents for both drone and operator registration.

To obtain a drone pilot certificate, operators must pass an online exam. If the exam is not passed, it may be retaken after a 24-hour waiting period. Once approved, the certificate remains valid for two years. A registration number will be issued and must be visibly displayed on the drone. Labels must use a font size of at least 3 mm for drones weighing less than 25 kg, and at least 25 mm for those weighing more than 25 kg.

Rules for Flying Drones in Thailand

Drone operation is regulated by CAAT’s safety and airspace guidelines. Drones must not endanger life, property, or public peace. Flights over urban areas, gatherings, or near government buildings, hospitals, military zones, or restricted areas (as designated in the Aeronautical Information Publication – Thailand) are prohibited unless authorised. Takeoff and landing zones must be unobstructed.

Flights are permitted only during daylight hours, in clear weather, and within visual line of sight. The use of first-person view or onboard cameras alone for navigation is not permitted. Flying into or near cloud cover is prohibited.

Drones may not operate within nine kilometres of an airport or temporary airfield without prior approval. The transport of hazardous materials, including laser devices, is strictly forbidden.

Minimum safe distances must be maintained: 30 metres for drones weighing under 2 kilograms and 50 metres for drones weighing between 2 and 25 kilograms.

Any drone-related incident must be reported immediately to CAAT via phone at +66 2 568 8851 or email at uav@caat.or.th. Special operations—such as night flights, flights above 90 metres, or entry into restricted zones—require prior written approval via uas_u@caat.or.th.

Contact Information

National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC)For drone ownership and radio frequency registrationAddress: 87 Phaholyothin Soi 8, Samsen Nai, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, ThailandPhone: +66 2 670 8888Call Center: 1200 (within Thailand)Website: www.nbtc.go.thDrone Registration Portal: https://anyregis.nbtc.go.th

Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT)For drone and pilot registration and flight regulation complianceAddress: 222 Vibhavadi Rangsit Soi 28, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, ThailandPhone: +66 2 568 8851Email: uav@caat.or.thFor special operations: uas_u@caat.or.thWebsite: www.caat.or.thDrone Registration Portal: https://uasportal.caat.or.th

The post Flying a Drone in Thailand – Updated Guide for Tourists appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

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