The Keel Max is an industrial-grade heavy-lift drone with a Max Takeoff Weight of up to 230 kg, placing it in a category that is significantly more strictly regulated under Thai law than standard drones.
Failing to understand these requirements does not simply prevent you from flying — there are clear legal penalties.
This article compiles everything Keel Max users need to know — from registration and permit applications to prohibited activities — updated in accordance with the latest laws and announcements for 2024–2025.
Note Drone laws and announcements in Thailand are subject to periodic changes. This article compiles the latest information as of early 2025. Always verify current announcements from CAAT at uasportal.caat.or.th before actual operations.
Why Is the Keel Max Subject to Special Regulatory Controls?
Thai drone law categorizes aircraft primarily by weight, with the key threshold set at 25 kilograms.
Drones exceeding 25 kilograms must comply with the Ministry of Transport Notification B.E. 2567, which stipulates requirements clearly more stringent than those for ordinary drones, covering aircraft registration, pilot registration, and the flight authorization process for each operation.
With a Takeoff Weight of 230 kg, the Keel Max clearly falls within this category — meaning operators must complete all required steps before flying.
Steps Required Before Flying the Keel Max in Thailand
Step 1: Register with CAAT (กพท.)
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is the primary regulatory body overseeing drone operations in Thailand. Keel Max operators must complete registration in two parts.
Aircraft Registration (the drone unit itself) The information of Keel Max, including serial number, weight, and technical specifications, must be reported to the CAAT (กพท.).
Operator Registration This is the process of obtaining an official “drone pilot license,” which certifies that the operator has sufficient knowledge and skills to safely fly a drone of this size. Drones weighing more than 25 kilograms must be operated only by registered operators, without exception.
Available channels: uasportal.caat.or.th or the UAS Portal application
Step 2: Register with the NBTC
In addition to the CAAT, operators must also obtain radio frequency authorization from the NBTC (กสทช.), as the Keel Max uses radio frequencies for communication between the drone and its ground control equipment.
Important: Even after receiving authorization from the NBTC, flight operations are not permitted until operator registration with the CAAT has also been completed. Both agencies must be fully processed.
Step 3: Apply for Flight Authorization Prior to Every Operation
This is the step that many people overlook and is the most common cause of legal issues. A one-time registration does not mean you can fly anywhere at any time.
Before every operation, the following information must be submitted through the UAS Portal: At least 3 days in advance:
- The intended flight area (coordinates and boundaries)
- Date and time of the flight
- Purpose of the operation
Areas and Conditions Requiring Special Caution
Permanent No-Fly Zones
Regardless of whether a license has been obtained, there are areas where drone flight is strictly prohibited, including the vicinity of airports, designated government and military areas, and areas declared by security agencies. Checking the no-fly zone map through the UAS Portal before every operation is essential.
Special Announcements in Emergency Situations
The CAAT (Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand) has the authority to issue emergency no-fly notices immediately when there is a security necessity. A clear example is the nationwide drone flight ban announced during July–August 2025 due to the Thai–Cambodian border situation, which was later resolved and flight was permitted under certain conditions.
What must be done is to regularly monitor CAAT announcements, especially before operations in new areas or during periods when special events occur.
Time Restrictions
During periods of special announcements, the CAAT may specify permitted flight time windows, such as only between 06:00–18:00 hours, which may affect operational plans. Current conditions should be verified every time before flying.
Penalties for Violators
Flying the Keel Max without proper legal compliance is subject to penalties under the Air Navigation Act, including both fines and imprisonment. The severity of the penalty depends on the nature of the violation, such as flying in restricted airspace, flying without registration, or flying without authorization.
For large, heavy drones like the Keel Max that can cause significant damage in the event of an accident, regulatory compliance is not merely about avoiding penalties — it is also a responsibility toward public safety.
Droneacademy Thailand Provides End-to-End Support
The legal and permitting procedures may appear complex, especially for organizations deploying large drones for the first time. droneth.or.th offers comprehensive support services that help Keel Max operators get everything right from day one.
Pilot Training Courses Specifically designed for drones weighing over 25 kilograms. Upon completion, registration with the CAAT can be done immediately.
Permit Application Coordination Services Assist with processing through the UAS Portal and coordinate with relevant agencies to reduce your team's documentation workload.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Drone Laws
Summary: Fly Legally, Fly Longer
Complying with Thai drone regulations is not overly difficult, but it requires understanding and advance planning. For the Keel Max, which is a heavyweight drone, the process may involve more steps than for ordinary drones, but each step has a clear safety rationale.
Organizations that fully comply with regulations from the outset not only avoid legal penalties, but also build greater credibility when working with government agencies and clients.
📩 Let the droneth.or.th team handle all legal and permit processes end-to-end for you.
From pilot training courses and drone registration to flight permit applications for each individual operation.
