File photo for reference only

 

Thailand is advancing its air transport system with a new initiative to promote drones for commercial delivery. The project was launched at National Telecom (NT) headquarters in Bangkok by Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn and Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaichanok Chidchob. This collaboration aims to facilitate faster delivery of goods, especially in remote areas, while ensuring safety through updated regulations.

 

The partnership, involving NT and the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), marks a significant step in modernising Thailand’s logistics. Minister Phiphat emphasized the role of drones as crucial to the logistics backbone, improving delivery efficiency for parcels, medicines, and essential supplies. He also highlighted the need for technological advancements to align with clear regulations to prevent illegal activities and ensure secure operations.

 

Authorities have tasked the CAAT with developing safety and security standards for public drone operations. This move is intended to prevent misuse, such as drug trafficking, and ensure a secure framework for drone activities. The initiative is expected to enhance quality of life, reduce business costs, and support sustainable national growth.

 

The partnership aims to create a "National Drone Ecosystem," involving government, state enterprises, and the private sector. This ecosystem seeks to promote safe and beneficial drone use in healthcare, logistics, agriculture, and public services, supporting a sustainable digital economy. Minister Chaichanok referred to the initiative as a demonstration of integration between digital and transport infrastructures, laying the groundwork for "smart mobility."

 

Future plans involve NT’s development of an Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM) platform and a 700 MHz communication network for real-time drone tracking. This infrastructure will support the safe and efficient management of drone traffic.

 

Key Takeaways

• The Thai government promotes drones for modern logistics and remote deliveries.
• Safety standards and regulations are prioritized to prevent illegal drone use.
• The initiative fosters a sustainable digital economy through a drone ecosystem.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-10-30

 

 

I hope this works. I just wonder what kind of air traffic controller system will be implemented.

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Minister Phiphat emphasized the role of drones as crucial to the logistics backbone, improving delivery efficiency for parcels, medicines, and essential supplies.

They can drop off your rice during floods, great idea

It was just a few weeks ago they banned all drone flights over the whole country  due to a border skirmish.

16 hours ago, HappyExpat57 said:

I hope this works. I just wonder what kind of air traffic controller system will be implemented.

 

Traffic controller system - oh noooo. 15k dead drones a year 

With thousands of logistics motorcycles and pickups, I can’t see the need for drone deliveries.

 

Maybe just another trough to visit for those setting up the scheme.

In Thailand, you’re joking. Pure pie in the sky. Good luck to anyone who invests in this madness.

20 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

The project was launched at National Telecom (NT) headquarters

Perhaps NT should concentrate on getting their monthly bill out to customers on time before they get involved in commercial deliveries and air traffic control?

 

Every month my internet bill, due on the 17th of the month, either arrives a day or two before the due payment date or several days after, this month it hasn't arrived at all. 

 

I drove 40km to their office yesterday to find out why I hadn't received a bill and they charged me for two months, the outstanding bill due on the 17th of October plus the next bill due on the 17th of November. 

I'm waiting for the Lazada and Shopee helium filled balloons to come floating over with my deliveries, a bit like Adelir Antonio, in his chair, suspended, throwing packages out like Santa.

1 hour ago, nahkit said:

Perhaps NT should concentrate on getting their monthly bill out to customers on time before they get involved in commercial deliveries and air traffic control?

That's down to the Post man.

you can pay your bill here

https://quickpay.nteservice.com/#

Whats their range ?

 

Be awesome to get my 8-ball deliveries from BKK in a timely manner.

On 10/30/2025 at 5:24 PM, HappyExpat57 said:

I hope this works. I just wonder what kind of air traffic controller system will be implemented.

Do you seriously think it will happen? Especially after Thailand just banned all drones for a border skirmish. Who will risk opening this type of business that can be banned at the drop of a hat? 

19 hours ago, johng said:

It was just a few weeks ago they banned all drone flights over the whole country  due to a border skirmish.

 

So it's time for a flip-flop.

14 hours ago, nahkit said:

Perhaps NT should concentrate on getting their monthly bill out to customers on time

 

Correct, i got a double bill last month, they blame the post office.

23 hours ago, johng said:

That's down to the Post man.

you can pay your bill here

https://quickpay.nteservice.com/#

I'll give it a try in two months time when I next owe them money if no bill has arrived.