CAAT Extends Drone Ban in Five Border Provinces to 30 Sept

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has extended restrictions on unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) flights in five border provinces and other security-sensitive areas until 30 September 2025. The announcement, issued on 13 September as CAAT Notification No. 6, replaces the previous Notification No. 5, which was valid until 15 September 2025. The ban aims to maintain security amid ongoing border tensions with Cambodia.

The affected areas include the five border provinces of Sa Kaeo, Buriram, Sisaket, Surin and Ubon Ratchathani, as well as Sa Thale District in Chonburi, Mueang District in Rayong, Phayuha Khiri District in Nakhon Sawan, Mueang District in Ratchaburi, and a 9-kilometre radius around airports including Khok Krathiam in Lopburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan airports. Additional restricted zones may be imposed by security authorities as required. CAAT stressed that drone operators must register their aircraft and submit flight plans at least three days in advance via the UAS Portal.

While the restrictions are in place, CAAT has allowed drone use in most other areas under strict conditions, recognising the operational needs of citizens, farmers and businesses. Flights are generally permitted from 06:00 to 18:00, with prior approval required for operations outside these hours; drone activity between 00:01 and 04:00 is prohibited. Military, police, customs, agriculture, natural resources and intelligence agency drones may operate within their jurisdiction, subject to notification to CAAT and relevant authorities.

CAAT emphasised that the extended ban is a precautionary measure following recommendations from security agencies to safeguard national security. Authorities have provided detailed guidance for reporting illegal or suspicious drone activity, including providing time, location and photographic or video evidence to the appropriate agencies. The UAS Portal continues to be upgraded to facilitate efficient licensing and compliance.

Officials will continue monitoring compliance with the drone restrictions, while security agencies coordinate to ensure the safety of sensitive border and airport areas. Investigations and enforcement actions are ongoing into any breeches of the guidelines. CAAT will update operators and the public if changes to the ban are implemented.

Key Takeaways

• CAAT extends the drone flight ban in five border provinces and security zones until 30 September 2025.

• Operators must register drones, submit flight plans via UAS Portal, and adhere to restricted flight hours.

• Authorities encourage reporting illegal drone activity to maintain security and public safety.

Related stories:

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Civil-aviation-authority-bans-all-drone-flights-nationwide-until-15-August

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-09-14