Updating drone regulations to accommodate increased commercial application
Drone Aviation Boom in Thailand: A New Era of Aviation Regulations
Say goodbye to old rules, Thailand's Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) is shaking things up by modifying the Air Navigation Act to bolster the soaring drone aviation sector. Here's the lowdown on what's changing.
ACM Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director of CAAT, shared some hot news. The Transport Ministry has instructed CAAT to revamp the Air Navigation Act (1954) with the primary focus on amplifying aviation safety and operational efficiency. This overhaul is expected to hit the runway later this year.
So, what's new? This updated law promises at least 30 innovative rules, some specific to drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). CAAT plans to ensure Thai regulations meet international safety standards, particularly those established by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). This new compliance covers both domestic and international air carriers, according to ACM Manat.
The regulators aren't stopping at legislation. CAAT has been hustling to fuel the drone industry's growth. They recently amended regulations to accommodate heavy-duty drones tipping the scales at over 25 kilograms, effective from September 1, 2024. This move has led to a surge in the usage of larger drones.
Moving beyond laws, CAAT has cooked up a few initiatives to supercharge the burgeoning drone industry. One exciting project kicks off in June, delivering goods via drones in busy downtown Bangkok. The trial route spans between the Bang Rak National Telecom Office and Iconsiam, with the Chao Phraya River acting as the runway. Once the trial wraps up, CAAT will welcome proposals for more drone delivery routes based on demand.
Since 2018, CAAT has given the green light to 127,507 UAV operations. Roughly 10% of these are agricultural drones, 10% are flown by foreign entities, and the rest belong to small drones. Currently, about 60,000 individuals are registered as drone operators. However, CAAT estimates a whopping 20,000 drones are still flying under the radar. With the new regulations, all drone pilots will need a drone aviation certificate from CAAT by September 1.
In essence, the coming changes aim to modernize Thailand's aviation sector, harmonizing it with the rapidly evolving drone technology while maintaining robust safety standards. Buckle up, as we're in for a thrilling ride!
Information Sources:1. Bangkok Post: Thailand looks to amend Air Navigation Act to boost drone aviation2. Bangkok Post: CAAT to open up more routes for drone services
The Transport Ministry has directed the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to revise the Air Navigation Act to enhance safety and efficiency, promising at least 30 innovative rules, some specific to drones and UAVs. CAAT has also amended regulations to allow heavy-duty drones exceeding 25 kilograms, effective from September 1, 2024, aiming to boost the drone industry's growth. In line with these changes, CAAT will require all drone pilots to hold a drone aviation certificate by the same date.
