CineChopper LLC Small Unmanned Aerial

Systems Flight Operations Manual

Rev. 1.0

06­29­15

Private and Confidential
Record of

Revisions

Revision No. Date Entered Page Signature

1.0 06­29­2015 original manual
Table of Contents

1. Philosophy and Mission Statement

2. Administration

2.1 Company Information

2.2 Pilot/Operator/Technician Organization

3. Distribution and Revision

4. Persons Authorized

4.1 Participating Persons

4.2 Non­Participating Persons

4.3 Closed­Set Security

5. Area of Operations

6. Plan of Activities

7. Permission to Operate

7.1 Private Property

7.2 Public and Real Property

7.3 Airports

7.4 COA

8. UAS Certification/Airworthiness

8.1 UAS Description

8.2 UAS Manufacturer's Maintenance and Inspection Requirements

8.3 Pre Flight Inspection

8.4 Maintenance Records

8.5 Persons Authorized to Perform Maintenance

9. Pilot, Visual Observer, and other Crewmember(s)

9.1 Minimum Requirements

9.2 Qualifications
9.2 Initial and Recurrent Training

10. Communications, Notifications

12.1 Local Participants

12.2 Airport and ATC Notifications

11. Safety

12. General Operating Procedures/Emergency Procedures

12.1 Prior to Flight

12.2 Take­off and Flight

12.3 Approach and Landing

12.4 Emergency Procedures

13. Additional FAA Required Operating Conditions and Limitations

14. Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum Used

15. Operations Logbook and Recordkeeping

16. Protection of Rights and Privacy

17. Appendix A ­ List of Aircraft

18. Appendix B ­ Aircraft Operating / Maintenance Publications and Supplements
Small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS), or drones, have been found useful for many

different applications, such as videography, search and rescue, industrial, and surveying.

They have become very widespread; their low cost and ease of use has brought about their

popularity. However, some operators and hobbyists buy these drones with little or no

training in their use, and sometimes without thinking of safety or property rights of others.

There is also an issue with drones being operated in the national airspace system. It cannot be

expected that a hobbyist who purchases a low cost sUAS would be aware of the complicated

arrival and departure procedures of manned aircraft, especially helicopters, to and from

aerodromes and heliports, and the potential for an unplanned encounter. sUAS are also a

much safer alternative to full size aircraft as they do not hold passengers and do not run on

gasoline.

This manual is intended to create a safe and responsible set of operating criteria for small

unmanned aerial vehicles and a system for administering these principals to crewmembers,

operators, and company personnel, that will ensure a safe integration into the national

airspace system and minimize the potential for injury to persons on the ground due to

equipment failure and lack of proficiency on behalf of the operator.

I Chris Newman (CineChopper LLC) Have experience flying hobby helicopters and planes

for the past 5 years without incident and pledge to my commitment to safety on all future

flights. Following exemption and approval by the FAA I will primarily use my

professionally built octo­copter and fixed wing UAS equipped with cameras for the

following applications: Aerial videography to safely enhance films and commercials.
2.1 Company Information

Christopher P. Newman

d/b/a CineChopper LLC

715 West 10 North

Lindon, Utah 84042

801­735­1037

2.2 Organization ­ Roles and Responsibilities

a. Aerial Coordinator / Director of Operations – Christopher P. Newman

Responsible for recordkeeping, compliance, and business operation.

Ensures all aerial activities are performed according to approved

procedures and operations manual. Also responsible for training,

crewmember qualifications, and currency.

b. Pilot in Command (PIC) (crewmember)

Acts as pilot in command of sUAS for all activities performed under the

FAA exemption. Responsible for aircraft airworthiness and safety of

flight.

c. Visual Observer (VO) (crewmember)

Flight crew personnel essential for the safety of flight by assisting the

PIC in maintaining a visual line of sight (VLOS) during sUAS
operations. Also assists in sUAS launch and recovery operations and

maintaining security and safety on the closed­set during sUAS

operations.

d. Technician

Flight crew personnel responsible for maintenance and repair of the sUAS

and aircraft maintenance logbooks.

e. Camera Operator

Production personnel responsible for operation of the camera system and

in­flight operation. The camera operator is separate from the VO.

Whenever any change to this operations manual is required due to any equipment or

personnel change, the following procedure will be adhered to:

a. The manual revision number and date will be revised accordingly, and;

b. A copy of the revised manual with changes will be distributed to all personnel.

Revisions to the operations manual which include changes that may affect the basis for which

the FAA granted the exemption must be petitioned to the FAA's UAS Integration Office

(AFS­80). Please refer to the FAA Exemption issued in order to evaluate any such changes.
4.1 Participating Persons

All authorized and consenting production personnel essential to the closed­set operations

shall be briefed on sUAS operation including risks involved, emergency procedures, and

safeguards to be followed during the filming production event. Personnel will also be briefed

on additional provisions that may be issued by the FSDO that had geographic responsibility

for the operational area, including the location of boundaries or time limits. The briefing shall

cover:

a. Operations manual

b. Plan of activities

c. Takeoff procedures

d. Activities to be conducted during the filming production event

e. Approach and landing procedures

f. Recall procedures

g. Emergency procedures

h. Risks to participating personnel

i. Method for controlling non­participating persons.

Participating persons are authorized to be in close proximity to sUAS operations only when

the above conditions are met.

4.2 Non­Participating Persons
At all times it is necessary that only persons essential to the operations are allowed within

500 feet of the area except those consenting to be involved and necessary for the filming

production. This distance may be reduced to no less than 200 feet if it would not adversely

affect safety and the Administrator has approved it. This equivalent level of safety may be

determined by an aviation safety inspector's evaluation of the filming production area to

note terrain features, obstructions, buildings, safety barriers, etc. Such barriers may protect

non­participating persons (observers, the public, news media, etc.) from debris in the event

of an accident.

4.3 Closed­Set Security

Appropriate measures must be taken in order to secure the closed­set area. This may include

barriers, placards, notices, etc. If necessary, additional production personnel, security, lawenforcement, etc. may be required to be on station at key locations on the perimeter of the

areas that are visually obstructed to the Pilot and VO (flight crew). Such perimeter personnel

shall maintain radio contact with the Pilot/VO and at any time during flight operations. If an

unsafe condition exists the flight crew shall be notified and the sUAS operation terminated

until the area has been cleared.

sUAS operations may be conducted throughout the entire United States and its territories and

possessions. The pilot/operator shall coordinate with the corresponding FSDO, having

geographic responsibility for the specific area authorized by the Certificate of Waiver (COA).

Area limits may be defined by various methods including latitude/longitude, VOR radial and

distance, airways, intersections, and other geographic landmarks as noted on FAA Sectional

Aeronautical Charts.
At least three days prior to any sUAS flight, a written Plan of Activities must be submitted to

the local FSDO with jurisdiction over the area of proposed filming. The three­day

notification may be waived with the concurrence of the FSDO. The plan of activities must

include at least the following:

a. Dates and times for all flights

b. Name and phone number of the operator for the sUAS filming production, who

will be present during the operation.

c. Name and phone number of the person responsible for the on­scene operation of

the sUAS.

d. Make, model, and serial number or N­number of the sUAS to be used.

e. Name and certificate number of the sUAS PIC involved in the filming

production event.

f. A statement that the operator has obtained permission from property owners

and/or local officials to conduct the filming production event; the list of those

who gave permission must be made available to the inspector upon request.

g. Signature of exemption­holder or representative.

h. A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams of any area,

city, town, county, and/or state over which filming will be conducted and the

altitudes essential to accomplish the operation.

i. Specify method of security that will be provided to exclude all persons not

directly involved with the operation from the location. If security is not needed,

specify "Not Applicable".
7.1 Private Property

Any sUAS operations conducted over private property require permission of the property

owner or their representative. An explanation of the proposed sUAS activities, including

associated risks must be provided and a permission statement in the form of written or typed

letter or email, provided to the company by the property owner (or representative). The

permission statement may be made orally if witnessed and documented.

The permission statement must contain the following information:

a. Name of Property Owner (or representative)

b. Description of Property (address, boundaries, etc.)

c. Date(s) and Time(s) of proposed sUAS operations

d. Signature of Property Owner (or representative) and Date (or)

e. Signature of witness in the case of an oral permission statement

7.2 Public or Real Property

In many cases, the filming operation will take place over public property such as city

streets, parks, federal land, etc. As with any filming operation, any necessary bylaws and

restrictions must be adhered to, and necessary permits must be obtained from any

regulating authority. In addition, an explanation of the proposed sUAS activities,

including associated risks must be provided and a permission letter in the form of written

or typed statement, permit, email, or verbal permission (if witnessed and documented)

provided to the company by the authority. For operations within five miles of the
geographic center of a non­towered airport, as denoted on a current FAA­published

aeronautical chart, a letter of agreement with that airport's management must be

obtained. Identification of the airport's management may be made through an Airport

Facility/Directory or other means. A description of the plan of activities shall be

provided to the airport management, including geographic boundaries of sUAS

operation, maximum altitude, and description of the sUAS.

Prior to actual sUAS operations, a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) must be

obtained from the FAA's Air Traffic Organization (ATO). The COA will require that a request

to issue a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) be made.

Copies of permission statements and COA's must be kept in the operations logbook.

8.1 sUAS Description (general)

The sUAS is a small, electrically powered, remote controlled multirotor aircraft. It is

gyroscopically stabilized and can maintain altitude and position manually or automatically

with an on­board GPS assist. The copter's propulsion system consists of direct drive

propellers mounted on electric motors whose speed is governed electronically by onboard

controllers. Pitch, roll, yaw, and thrust commands are communicated to an onboard flight

control system wirelessly with a handheld controller that the pilot operates. Battery power

for the craft consists of rechargeable lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries.

As part of the sUAS, certain safety features are present that include at least the following:

1. Automatic return home and landing in the event of a loss of Command and Control

(radio signal);
2. Automatic controlled descent and landing in the event battery voltage reaches too

low a level for continued normal flight (notwithstanding flight limits described

herein) and;

3. Telemetry transmitted to PIC showing battery level, GPS flight parameters, and

satellite lock.

While in flight, telemetry information is transmitted live back to the pilot and consists of

GPS altitude (AGL), ground speed, direction of flight, rate of climb, distance and bearing,

and battery life (voltage), at minimum. Proper operation of the telemetry transmission is

essential to the safe operation of the sUAS.

The sUAS aircraft used have a wingspan of less than 72" and gross weight of less

than 55 pounds and maximum speed of 85kts. Payload consists of video camera

equipment.

This operating manual contains a manufacturer's 'User Manual' for each individual aircraft

and component used. The user manual includes manufacturer's maintenance and inspection

requirements and operating procedures. It is the operator's responsibility to ensure that the

latest version of the user manual is included in this operating manual, with a record of

revisions kept on file. In addition, the manufacturer may specify hardware and software

updates, service bulletins and other updates. It is the operator's responsibility to comply with

any updates when they may directly affect the safe operation of the sUAS. In addition, after

any change, modification, or update, the aircraft records must be noted with the maintenance

performed, including total time (estimated), date, description of the maintenance performed,

and signature of the person authorized to perform the maintenance with a statement that the

aircraft is in a condition for safe operation. Finally, prior to any flight performed under the
FAA exemption, the aircraft must successfully complete a test flight after any maintenance

performed and a logbook entry made in the aircraft records.

8.3 Pre­flight Inspection

Prior to each flight, the PIC must inspect the sUAS to ensure it is in a condition for safe

flight. This shall include airframe and electronic components, batteries (condition and

charge), operator's remote control transmitter, and any other equipment required for safe

operation. If the inspection reveals a condition that may affect the safe operation of the

sUAS, the aircraft must not be operated until necessary maintenance has been performed

and the sUAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. Any maintenance performed must

be documented in the aircraft records.

Specific pre­flight inspection and procedures are included in the manufacturer's 'User

Manual' for each aircraft, contained herein.

Each aircraft shall be accompanied by a maintenance logbook in which a description of any

modification, repair, software update, inspection, etc. performed must be recorded. The

logbook entry shall include aircraft total time (estimated), date, description of the maintenance

performed, and signature of the person authorized to perform the maintenance with a

statement that the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation. The maintenance records shall

be kept as part of this operating manual and be available to the operator/PIC.
Prior to any maintenance, software update, or programming of the sUAS, the maintenance

technician should become completely familiar with the manufacturer's user manual and

maintenance publications for a particular aircraft. In addition, he/she should have an

understanding of the fundamental operation of the sUAS, including at least:

a. Propulsion system

b. Battery charging theory and operation

c. Radio spectrum used for command and control (C2)

In addition, the maintenance technician should be able to demonstrate competence in the

following skills:

a. Use of basic electronic and measurement equipment

b. Soldering, wiring, and connector installation

c. Any other specific skills as described in the maintenance publications

Persons authorized to perform maintenance shall be at the discretion of the Director of

Operations and noted in the Operations Logbook.

The sUAS will require at least three crewmembers on site for aerial filming. They include the

PIC, VO, and Camera Operator. When actual aerial 'filming' operations are not being

conducted, but flights are being conducted under the FAA waiver for test flights, currency, etc.

only a VO is required. The PIC and VO have distinct and separate roles from the Camera

Operator however, and may not perform the Camera Operator role (in addition) while

operating under the FAA exemption.
9.1 Pilot Personnel ­ Minimum Requirements and Recent Experience

The sUAS Pilot in Command must possess at least a sport pilot certificate and a driver's

license. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 14 CFR § 61.56

in which the PIC is rated on his/her pilot certificate.

Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar

operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14

CFR § 61.51 (b), a minimum of 200 flight cycles and 25 hours of total time as a sUAS

rotorcraft pilot and at least ten hours logged as a sUAS pilot with a similar sUAS type

(single blade or multirotor). Prior documented flight experience that was obtained in

compliance with applicable regulations may satisfy this requirement.

Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar

operations), the PIC must accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR §

61.51 (b), a minimum of five hours as sUAS pilot operating the make and model of sUAS to

be used for operations under the FAA exemption and three take­offs and landings in the

preceding 90 days.

Prior to any flight operations authorized by an FAA exemption, the PIC must complete a

flight review administered by the Director of Operations and consisting of an oral and/or

written knowledge test, plus a demonstration of flight proficiency in each aircraft intended to

be flown under the FAA exemption.

The knowledge portion of the test shall include a demonstration of the understanding of all

applicable parts of this operations manual, including sUAS operation (systems,
programming, flight operation, emergency procedures), applicable FAR's, COA issuance

procedures, etc.

The practical, or flight proficiency portion of the test shall consist of a series of maneuvers

or procedures consistent with the actual type of flights conducted under the FAA

exemption.

Upon successful completion of this qualification process, an entry in the airman's logbook

shall be made by the Director of Operations, or his/her designee, indicating satisfactory

performance with a wording similar to:

"I have given (name) a flight review in accordance with the CineChopper LLC, Operations

Manual, section 9.2 and find him/her competent to operate the sUAS in conjunction with

filming or similar operations authorized by the FAA exemption".

In addition, a record of the completion of this qualification process shall be kept on file.

9.3 Visual Observer (VO) Personnel ­ Qualifications

The Visual Observer (VO) is a crewmember whose responsibility is to maintain a visual line

of sight (VLOS) with the sUAS when the PIC may need to temporarily turn away from the

UAS to view telemetry information, etc. The VO will also act in a safety capacity by

monitoring the flight area for non­participating persons, other aircraft, or any situation that

affects the safety of the operation. The VO is in communication with other participating

personnel who are assisting in keeping the closed­set flight area clear of non­participating

persons and other unforeseen safety issues.
Prior to any flight operations authorized by an FAA exemption, the VO must complete a

review administered by the Director of Operations and consisting of an oral and/or written

knowledge test.

The knowledge portion of the test shall include a demonstration of the understanding of all

applicable parts of this operations manual, including sUAS flight operation, closed­set

security, applicable FAR's, COA issuance procedures, etc.

Upon successful completion of this qualification process, a record of the completion of

this qualification process shall be kept on file in the Operations Logbook.

Every Pilot, VO, and Maintenance Technician shall undergo a familiarization and initial

training session on each aircraft and operating procedure contained in this manual.

Whenever any changes are made to the sUAS system that appreciably affect the operation or

maintenance, such as a change to the Command and Control system, Flight Controller, etc.

or a procedural change in the operation of the sUAS, each designated PIC, VO, and

Technician shall undergo recurrent training as needed.

The training shall be conducted initially by the Director of Operations, and subsequently

by his/her appointees.

Example: A flight controller software update adds new features to the command and control

system requiring remote control switch re­mapping. A familiarization and training session

must be held with involved crewmembers making them aware of the change and any

operational procedures that may be affected.
10.1 Production Personnel Communication

It is imperative that a clear method of communication be maintained between the PIC, VO

and any security or production personnel that are assisting in set security. The form of

communication may be accomplished with any combination of first person spoken word,

two­way radio, or cell phone. Other production communications not associated with the

sUAS operation should not share common radio channels.

The Aerial Coordinator and/or PIC will coordinate with the designated production

representative and implement a plan for communications between participants. The plan will

incorporate at least the following:

a. Designated ground contact personnel

b. Assignment of discrete frequencies between sUAS crew and production

c. Visual signals (flags, hand signals, lights, etc.) should be used to halt filming in

the event of lost communications or inability to utilize radios

d. Abort signals, audible or visual, to halt filming in the event of

unforeseen circumstances or safety hazards.

10.2 Notifications

As stated in 7.3, appropriate permission(s) must be obtained from nearby airport operators

prior to any sUAS activity. In addition, when sUAS activities commence, a notification by

phone should be made to the operator or ATC facility when possible. At the conclusion of
the sUAS activity, likewise, phone contact should be made with the local airport operator(s)

and any associated ATC facility advising them of the termination of activities.

When possible, a portable aircraft two­way transceiver should be kept on hand to monitor any

local airport advisory or tower frequency.

11. Safety

11.1 Safety Briefings

At the start of each day's filming, the Aerial Coordinator and/or Pilot in Command and the

designated production representative will conduct a briefing/safety meeting for the

production staff and those persons necessary for filming, including emergency, safety, and

security personnel.

All briefings/safety meetings should include the following:

a. Pertinent items and the special provisions of the Aerial Coordinator and/or PIC,

Operations Manual and accompanying COA, along with any additional

provisions issued by the local FSDO.

b. Possible risk to personnel who are involved

c. Safeguards to personnel and equipment

d. Communications

e. Emergency Procedures

f. Location of Boundaries

g. Local governmental limitations or restrictions, if any
A pre­planned stunt and/or special effect sequence will not be changed in any way without the

authorization of the Aerial Coordinator and/or PIC. No changes should be made once the

sUAS is airborne.

The Aerial Coordinator and/or PIC should designate one person as the ground safety

contact, whose responsibility is to maintain adequate clearance of the sUAS during all

takeoff and landing sequences with nearby personnel.

The production company must notify all cast and crew members that a sUAS will be

operating in close proximity to crew and equipment. This notification should be included

on the call sheet if possible.

12. General Operating Procedures and Limitations

The manufacturer's user and operation manuals shall be consulted for operating procedures

specific to each component in the sUAS. This includes aircraft, flight controller, ground

control transmitter, telemetry transmitter, and batteries. Copies of all pertinent manuals are

included as part of this operations manual. Notwithstanding any procedure outlined in the

component manuals, general operating procedures and limitations are included below:

12.1 Site Assessment

Prior to flight, the PIC and VO shall discuss with film production personnel the desired flying

sequence and flight path needed in order to achieve the desired result. A survey, or

walk­through, of the flight path area should be conducted, and any obstacles should be noted.

In addition, any potential areas where visual line of sight (VLOS) of the UA may be

compromised should be identified. Based on this survey, a takeoff and landing area for the
UAS should be chosen that will allow maximum visibility of the UA during flight with

regard to obstacles that may affect an automatic return to home sequence in the event of loss

of communication. In addition, alternate landing areas within the secured area must be

identified which may be used in the event of an emergency.

In addition, points at which security or other production personnel should be placed in order

to safeguard the area from non­participants should be determined. These points would

typically be not within line of sight of the PIC/VO during the flying sequence.

12.2 Weather Assessment

Flights should not be conducted unless the weather conditions meet the minimum

requirements for VMC as prescribed in FAR 91.155. SVFR operations are not authorized. In

addition, the UA must not be operated less than 500' below or less than 2000' horizontally

from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

12.3 Preflight and Motor Start

Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the sUAS to ensure it is in a condition for safe flight.

This shall include airframe and electronic components, batteries (condition and charge),

operator's remote control transmitter, and any other equipment required for safe operation. If

the inspection reveals a condition that may affect the safe operation of the sUAS, the aircraft

must not be operated until necessary maintenance has been performed and the sUAS is found

to be in a condition for safe flight. Any maintenance performed must be documented in the

aircraft records.
Specific pre­flight inspection and operating procedures are included in the manufacturer's

'User Manual' for each aircraft and flight control, contained herein, and in general includes

the following items:

a. Condition of airframe and components, connectors, wiring, etc.

b. Battery condition and security

c. Flight controller status indicators (per user manual)

d. Compass condition and calibration (per user manual)

e. GPS status lock with minimum number of satellites (per user manual)

f. Remote control transmitter battery condition and status (per user manual)

g. PIC and VO shall ensure the immediate area is clear of all non­essential

personnel.

h. PIC makes a verbal announcement 'clear' prior to motor start, and engages

motors.

i. PIC inspects the UA for abnormal vibrations, loose components, etc. prior to

liftoff.

j. PIC confirms telemetry information including AGL reading (of 0' while on the

ground), is accurate.

12.4 Take Off and Normal Flight

At UA liftoff, an assessment of any flight abnormalities such as oscillation, etc. is taken by

the PIC prior to departing the liftoff area. If any such conditions exist the flight must be

terminated and the condition evaluated. In addition, a flight timer must be started in order to

monitor the total flight time with respect to battery depletion. However, as battery rate of

depletion is dependent on UA speed and maneuvering, flight time must not be relied upon as

the sole method for determining when to return for landing.
At all times during the flight, the UA flight parameters, GPS status, and battery condition

are shown to the PIC via onboard telemetry transmitter. If at any time the telemetry

information is lost for more than 20 seconds, the PIC must begin to abort the flight and

return the UA for landing. If telemetry information is regained, the flight may continue.

It is imperative that the sUAS battery voltage(s) be monitored consistently throughout the

flight, and that the aircraft be returned for landing when this voltage reaches a predetermined

level that allows a safe return with at least 25% battery life remaining. This voltage level can

vary depending on battery size. It is the PIC's responsibility to determine this voltage based

on previous flights and post flight battery evaluation using a battery condition indicator.

It is also imperative that GPS status be monitored consistently throughout the flight. A

minimum of 6 satellites must be locked in order to initiate a return to home function in the

event of lost communications; therefore, if at any time during flight, less than 6 satellites are

locked, the PIC must begin to abort the flight and return for landing.

The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all other manned operations

and activities at all times (including, but not limited to, ultralight vehicles, parachute

activities, parasailing activities, hang gliders, etc.).

The UA may be operated closer than 500 feet to participating persons who have had a

safety briefing as described in section 4.1 and 11.1 of this manual.

12.4 Approach and Landing

A return for landing must occur at a point that will allow the UA to return from it's present

location to the landing area (home point) with at least 25% battery life remaining. Distance
from home point and headwind must be accounted for when determining when to return for

landing.

During the return for landing segment, appropriate crewmembers and production personnel

in the immediate vicinity must be notified and the landing area be made clear. If for any

reason the landing area cannot be cleared then the PIC must select an alternate landing area

as defined in 12.1.

12.5 Emergency Procedures

An emergency condition exists if at any time the safety of any participating or

non­participating personnel is in jeopardy. This can be the result of a sUAS malfunction,

loss of site security, conflict with other aircraft, etc. The PIC shall take appropriate action as

necessary, which may include an emergency landing or initiation of auto return home

(failsafe). In the event the PIC determines an emergency condition exists, immediate

communication must be made with crew and production personnel and any filming activity

halted.

An emergency condition may consist if any of the following occur:

a. Loss of command and control of the sUAS

b. Flight controller, motor, ESC or autopilot malfunction

c. Premature battery failure

d. Loss of GPS lock (<6 satellites)

e. Potential conflict with other aircraft
f. Compromise of security of the closed­set (non participating personnel in the area,

etc.)

g. sUAS enters a failsafe condition (automatic return to home)

13. Additional FAA Required Operating Conditions and Limitations

When not covered elsewhere in this Operations Manual, the following conditions and

limitations apply:

1. The UA must weigh less than 55 pounds (25kg), including energy source(s)

and equipment

2. The UA may not be flown at a speed exceeding a ground speed of 85 knots.

3. Flights must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground

level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operator's manual. All

altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL.

4. The UAS must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times.

This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other

than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC's state driver’s license.

5. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The VO may be used to satisfy

the VLOS requirement, as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The

VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times.

6. If a discrepancy exists between these limitations and any procedure outlined elsewhere

in this operations manual, the conditions and limitations herein take precedence and

must be followed.

7. Prior to each flight, the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure it is in a condition for

safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the

UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has

been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The
Ground Control Station, if utilized, must be included in the preflight inspection. All

maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records.

8. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS

operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component,

must undergo a functional test flight in accordance with the operator's manual. The

PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the UAS aircraft

records of the flight.

9. The operator must follow the manufacturer's UAS aircraft/component, maintenance,

overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements. When unavailable, aircraft

maintenance/component/overhaul, replacement, and inspection/maintenance

requirements must be established and identified in the operator's manual. At a minimum,

the following must be included in the operator's manual:

a. Actuators / Servos

b. Transmission (single rotor)

c. Powerplant (motors)

d. Propellers

e. Electronic speed controller

f. Batteries

g. Mechanical dynamic components (single rotor)

h. Remote command and control

i. Ground control station (if used)

j. Any other components as determined by the operator

10. The Pilot in Command (PIC) must possess at least a sport pilot certificate and at least a

current state driver’s license. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements

specified in 14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his/her pilot

certificate.

11. Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar

operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14
CFR § 61.51 (b), a minimum of 200 flight cycles and 25 hours of total time as a UAS

rotorcraft pilot and at least ten hours logged as a UAS pilot with a similar UAS type

(single blade or multirotor). Prior documented flight experience that was obtained in

compliance with applicable regulations may satisfy this requirement. Training,

proficiency, and experience­building flights can also be conducted under this grant of

exemption to accomplish the required flight cycles and flight time. During training,

proficiency, and experience­building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations

are considered non­participants, and the PIC must operate the UAS with appropriate

distance from non­participants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119.

12. Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar

operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14

CFR § 61.51 (b), a minimum of five hours as UAS pilot operating the make and model of

UAS to be utilized for operations under the exemption and three take­offs and three landings

in the preceding 90 days. Training, proficiency, experience­building, and take­off and landing

currency flights can be conducted under this grant of exemption to accomplish the required

flight time and 90 day currency. During training, proficiency, experience­building, and

take­off and landing currency flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are

considered non­participants, and the PIC must operate the UAS with appropriate distance

from non­participants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119.

13. Prior to any flight operations authorized by this grant of exemption, the PIC and visual

observer (VO) must have successfully completed a qualification process, as outlined in

the operator’s manual. As this is a requirement stipulated by the operator, the test must be

developed and implemented by a qualified person designated at the sole discretion of the

operator. A record of completion of this qualification process must be documented and made

available to the Administrator upon request.

14. Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar

operations), a flight demonstration, administered by an operator­approved and ­qualified pilot
must be successfully completed and documented. This documentation must be available for

review upon request by the Administrator. Because the knowledge and airmanship test

qualifications have been developed by the operator, and there are no established practical test

standards that support a jurisdictional FAA FSDO evaluation and approval of company

designated examiners, the petitioner will conduct these tests in accordance with the

operator’s manual.

15. The UAS may not be operated directly over any person, except authorized and consenting

production personnel, below an altitude that is hazardous to persons or property on the surface

in the event of a UAS failure or emergency.

16. Regarding the distance from participating persons, the operator’s manual has safety

mitigations for authorized and consenting production personnel. At all times, those persons

must be essential to the closed­set film operations. Because these procedures are specific to

participating persons, no further FSDO or Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) approval is

necessary for reductions to the distances specified in the petitioner’s manuals. This is

consistent with the manned aircraft procedures described in FAA Order 8900.1, V3, C8, S1

Issue a Certificate of Waiver for Motion Picture and Television Filming.

17. Regarding distance from non­participating persons, the operator must ensure that no

persons are allowed within 500 feet of the area except those consenting to be involved and

necessary for the filming production. This provision may be reduced to no less than 200 feet

if it would not adversely affect safety and the Administrator has approved it. For example,

an equivalent level of safety may be determined by an aviation safety inspector’s evaluation

of the filming production area to note terrain features, obstructions, buildings, safety

barriers, etc. Such barriers may protect non­participating persons (observers, the public,

news media, etc.) from debris in the event of an accident. This is also consistent with the

same FAA Order 8900.1, V3, C8, S1. 18. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS

signal, the UA must return to a pre­determined location within the security perimeter and

land or be recovered in accordance with the operator’s manual.
18. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA must return to a

pre­determined location within the security perimeter and land or be recovered in

accordance with the operator’s manual.

19. The UAS must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in

accordance with the operator’s manual.

20. Each UAS operation must be completed within 30 minutes flight time or with 25%

battery power remaining, whichever occurs first.

21. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver

or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under this grant of

exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman

(NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the

operation.

22. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial

number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification

(N­Number) markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings

must be as large as practicable.

23. The operator must develop procedures to document and maintain a record of the UAS

maintenance, preventative maintenance, alterations, status of replacement/overhaul

component parts, and the total time in service of the UAS. These procedures must be

added to the operator’s manual.

24. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer Safety

Bulletins.

25. The operator must develop UAS technician qualification criteria. These criteria must be

added to the operator’s manual.

26. The preflight inspection section in the operator’s manual must be amended to include the

following requirement: The preflight inspection must account for all discrepancies, i.e.

inoperable components, items, or equipment, not covered in the relevant preflight

inspection sections of the operator’s manual.
27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and

control of the UAS must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements.

28. At least three days before scheduled filming, the operator of the UAS affected by this

exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local FSDO with jurisdiction

over the area of proposed filming. The 3­day notification may be waived with the

concurrence of the FSDO. The plan of activities must include at least the following:

a. Dates and times for all flights

b. Name and phone number of the person responsible for the UAS filming

production under this grant of exemption

c. Name and phone number of the person responsible for the on­scene operation

of the UAS.

d. Make, model and serial or N­number of the UAS to be used

e. Name and certificate number of the UAS PIC's involved in the filming

production event

f. A statement that the operator has obtained permission from property

owners and/or local officials to conduct the filming production event;

the list of those who gave permission must be made available to the

inspector upon request.

g. Signature of exemption­holder or representative

h. A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams of any area,

city, town, county, and/or state over which filming will be conducted and the

altitudes essential to accomplish the operation

29. The documents required under 14 CFR § 91.9 and § 91.203 must be available to the

PIC at the ground control station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. These

documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official

upon request.
30. The UAS must remain clear and yield the right of way to all other manned operations

and activities at all times (including, but not limited to, ultralight vehicles, parachute

activities, parasailing activities, hang gliders, etc.).

31. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All

operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC).

Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

32. The UAS cannot be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle.

33. The UAS may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet

horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

34. The UAS may not operate in Class B, C, or D airspace without written approval from

the FAA. The UAS may not operate within 5 miles of the geographic center of a

non­towered airport as denoted on a current FAA­published aeronautical chart unless a

letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is

conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter

of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator

upon request.

35. Any 1) incident, 2) accident, or 3) flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical

boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to

the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) UAS Integration Office (AFS­80) within 24

hours. Accidents must be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)

per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov. Further flight

operations may not be conducted until the incident, accident, or transgression is reviewed

by AFS­80 and authorization to resume operations is provided.
The sUAS Command and Control utilizes spread spectrum 2.4Ghz­2.485Ghz frequencies

in accordance with CFR 47, Part 15 for model aircraft use.

The sUAS camera system utilizes 5.725Ghz­5.875Ghz frequencies in accordance with CFR

47, Part 15.

An Operations Logbook shall be kept that contains a list of authorized personnel (PIC, VO,

Technician) and records of completion of qualification. The Operations Logbook also contains

copies of waivers, notams, permission letters, production notes, etc. organized by production

and date. This logbook must be available whenever sUAS operations are conducted in

conjunction with the FAA Exemption. It is the responsibility of the Aerial

Coordinator/Operations Manager and/or PIC to maintain the Operations Logbook.

During any filming operation the potential to include images of persons and property that are

not part of the production exists. Every effort must be made to ensure that appropriate local

laws and regulations concerning privacy are complied with.
Appendix 'A'

List of Aircraft

No. Make and Model Description Serial No. Registration

No.

1 CineChopper Rapid

Pro X

Electric powered, 8 rotor, small

unmanned multirotor helicopter

RPX­0001 Pending

2 CineChopper Rapid

Pro X

Electric powered, 8 rotor, small

unmanned multirotor helicopter

RPX­0002 Pending

3 DJI Phantom 3 Electric powered, 4 rotor small

unmanned multirotor helicopter

RPX­0003 Pending

4 DJI Inspire Electric powered, 4 rotor small

unmanned multirotor helicopter

RPX­0004 Pending

sUAS Equipment

List(s): RPX­0001

1. CineChopper Rapid Pro X Aircraft with integrated motors and propellers

2. DJI Wookong Flight Controller

3. Amimon Connex HD Video Transmitter

4. 10000mah LiPo battery (2)

5. Spektrum DX9 Transmitter

RPX­0002

1. CineChopper Rapid Pro X Aircraft with integrated motors and propellers

2. DJI Wookong Flight Controller

3. Amimon Connex HD Video Transmitter

4. 10000mah LiPo battery (2)

5. Spektrum DX9 Transmitter

RPX­0003

1. DJI Phantom 3

2. DJI Integrated Camera

3. DJI Integrated iOSD Telemetry Module (On Screen Display)

4. DJI Light Bridge Downlink
5. 4480mah LiPo battery (1)

6. DJI P3 Transmitter

RPX­0004

1. DJI Inspire

2. DJI Integrated Camera

3. DJI Integrated iOSD Telemetry Module (On Screen Display)

4. DJI Light Bridge Downlink

Appendix 'B'

Aircraft Manuals

This Appendix includes UAS manufacturer's user manuals, maintenance instructions, and

illustrated parts catalogs. Information regarding design, aircraft performance, fail­safe

features, operating limitations, normal and emergency procedures, and maintenance and

inspection procedures is contained within the manuals and supplemental information

documents listed below:

1. Phantom 3 Professional Manual V1.0

2. Wookong M ­ Manual V1.14

3. Amimon Connex User Guide V1.0

4. Spektrum DX9 Manual V1.0

5. Rogers Guide to LiPo Batteries dated 3/29/14

6. CineChopper Rapid Pro X Manual V1.0

7. DJI Inspire Manual V1.0

For more information or questions about this manual please contact:

CineChopper LLC

715 West 10 North

Lindon, UT 84042

801­735­1037