Can You Fly a Drone in Phuket? What Do You Need for That?

We get it: Phuket’s views are stunning, and if there’s ever a place to capture breathtaking aerial footage, it’s here. You are allowed to bring drones into the country, but before flying, you must complete a registration process.

How to Legally Fly a Drone in Phuket:

1. Prepare the required documents and drone information: a copy of your passport with a visa or entry stamp, photos of your drone from all sides and the remote control, drone model and serial numbers of both the drone and the remote.
2. Provide your contact details: temporary accommodation address or hotel booking confirmation, phone number and email address.
3. Go to the NBTC office (National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission) with your documents. Geo on Google Maps.
4. Get drone insurance from a Thai insurance company. The price depends on your drone model and coverage amount.
5. Apply for a CAAT license (Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand). You can submit your application online at: https://ais.caat.or.th/. The process takes around 15 days.

Important Rules for Flying a Drone in Thailand:

• Flights are allowed only during daylight hours
• Always keep the drone within your line of sight
• Do not fly within 9 km (5 miles) of any airport
• Do not fly over populated areas or large gatherings of people
• Stay at least 50 meters away from people, vehicles, and buildings
• Flying over national parks is prohibited (to protect wildlife and their well-being)
• Do not fly over government buildings, military zones, or hospitals

Penalty for flying a drone without registration: 100,000 ฿ fine or up to 5 years in prison.

It’s best to fly in scenic high-altitude spots — the kind of places you’ll remember for a long time. We’ve gathered the best ones in our Viewpoints section.

Want to learn more about staying on the right side of the law? Check out our guide on Rules of Behavior in Thailand.