August 17, 2015 

Attn: 

U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations 

West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140 

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

RE: BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC 

-. -_::: 

.:. :_~. ~ __ : 

REQUEST AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF TITLE 14 OF THE CODE 

OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS 

SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & 

(a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF DJI Phantom 

3 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF 

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112-95) 

Keith A. Bergman, P .E. 

Owner/Member 

Bergman Engineering, LLC 

410 Main Street, Suite 500 

Harleysville, PA 19438 

215-256-4861 -telephone 

215-513-1555- fax 

kbergman@bergmanengineering.net 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Page 

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................... 3 

SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................... 4 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER ................................................... .4 

BACKGROUND .................................................................................................................... 4 

BASIS FOR PETITION ......................................................................................................... 5 

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER ......................................................................... 6 

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.P.R. FROM WHICH BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC 

SEEKS EXEMPTION ............................................................................................................ ? 

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC SEEKS AND THE REASON 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC SEEKS THE 

RELIEF .............................................................. 10 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S REQUEST 

WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST 

............................................................................................ 12 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION TO BERGMAN ENGINEERING, 

LLC WOULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY. ............................................................ .l4 

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER. ................. .24 

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO 

SUPPORT BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S REQUEST ................................................. .25 

CONCLUSION ..................................................................................................................... 26 

APPENDICES ......................................................................................... 26 

2 
AGL 

AOI 

ATC 

ATO 

AV 

CPR 

COA 

FAA 

FAR 

GCS 

GPS 

LOL 

NAS 

NOT AM 

PIC 

Section 333 

so 

SOP 

UA 

UAS 

VFR 

VLOS 

VMC 

VTOL 

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS 

Above Ground Level 

Area of Interest 

Air Traffic Control 

Air Traffic Organization 

Aerial Vehicle 

Code ofFederal Regulations 

Certificate of Authorization 

Federal Aviation Administration 

Federal Aviation Regulation 

Ground Control Station 

Global Positioning System 

Loss ofLink 

National Airspace System 

Notice to Airman 

Pilot In Command 

FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012 (FMRA) 

Safety Observer 

Standard Operating Procedures 

Unmanned Aircraft 

Unmanned Aircraft System 

Visual Flight Rules 

Visual Line of Site 

Visual Meteorological Conditions 

Vertical Takeoff and Landing 

3 
SUMMARY 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 

61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 

91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (DJI Phantom 3) pursuant to Section 

333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the 

commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of construction sites, residential 

and commercial real estate, civil landscapes and events over certain areas of the United States. 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC and its employees has for over three years provided their 

clients (which include private sector businesses and non-profits, along with local, state, and federal 

agencies) with expertise and knowledge in civil engineering. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC 

has worked on thousands of projects in all types of locations with a perfect client and employee 

safety record. In the past we have supplied our client's aerial video and photography using 

commercial aircraft. The objective of BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC and our Unmanned 

Aircraft System (DJI Phantom 3) aerial operations is to provide a more affordable, high-quality 

production system for a variety of governmental, commercial, public, and residential uses, 

specifically targeting 

• Construction sites before and after 

• Roof inspections 

• Highway and Roadway Inspections 

• Bridge and other Infrastructure Improvement Inspections 

• Special event coverage 

• Private and governmental training 

BACKGROUND 

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3, UAS 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks an exemption to operate DJI Phantom 3 system for 

compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) 

Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart 

phone systems. The DJI Phantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of approximately 2.8 lb. while 

having a diag<;mal dimension of23.2", a maximum speed of approximately 16.4fps and a maximum 

flying height of 400 feet. The DJI Phantom 3 is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium 

Polymer battery powered electric motors. 

4 
The DJI Phantom 3 that will be operated by BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will be registered 

in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft, as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircrqft 

Registration, and marked in accordance with 14 C.P.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration 

Marking. 

BASIS FOR PETITION 

Petitioner, BERGMAN ENGINEERING LLC., pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation 

Regulations (14 C.P.R.§ 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012 (FMRA), 

Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems, hereby petitions the 

Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3, UAS in the National Airspace System 

(NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 

91.121, 91.15l(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the 

unmanned aircraft and its operation, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC operation of DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will not require an 

airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.P.R. Part 21, Subpart H. 

Accordingly, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 

91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements 

for maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent 

level of safety will be ensured. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will use experienced personnel 

or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using 

the methods, techniques, and practices described in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly 

Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 

3UAS. 

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113( a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and 

limitations: Pilot in command, is requesting by BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC to the extent 

necessary to not require a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, 

as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flighthour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom UAS in a 

manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft 

airworthiness, because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS does not require an airworthiness certificate in 

accordance with 14 C.P.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC 

submits that they will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to 

every flight, by determining that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., 

5 
Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft is in a 

condition for safe flight. 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 

91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings, as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not have a typical barometric 

altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be provided to 

the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data 

link, which downlinks from the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude 

information, combined with BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S operation of the DJI Phantom 

3 UAS within visual line of sight, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. 

Additionally, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks an exemption from the requirements of 

Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI Phantom 3 

UAS in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough 

battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 23 minutes. Battery power indicators 

are also able to show exactly how much battery power is left, as well as how much time is needed 

to return safely back to point of take off. 

In accordance with 14 C.F .R. § 11.81, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC provides the following 

information in support of its petition for exemption: 

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner. 

The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is: 

Keith A. Bergman, P .E. 

Owner/Member 

Bergman Engineering, LLC 

410 Main Street, Suite 500 

Harleysville, PA 19438 

215-256-4861 -telephone 

215-513-1555- fax 

kbergman@bergmanengineering.net 

6 
B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks 

Exemption. 

1. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

61.113(a) And (b). 

Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, 

subsections (a) and (b) describe the following, in relevant part: 

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) 

of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may 

that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft. 

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection 

with any business or employment if-

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and 

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire. 

2. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.7(a). 

Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, subsection (a), states the following: 

(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition. 

3. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.121. 

Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, subsection (a), states the following, in part: 

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level 

of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when 

operating--

(1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to--

(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 

1 00 nautical miles of the aircraft; 

(ii) If there is no station within the area described in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this 

section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate available station; 

or 

(iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the 

departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure. 

7 
4. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.151(b). 

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, subsection 

(b), states the following: 

(b) No person may begin a flight ili a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless 

(considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the 

first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that 

for at least 20 minutes. 

5. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 

91.405(a). 

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following: Each 

owner or operator of an aircraft-

(a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as described in subpart E of this part and shall 

between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) ofthis section, have 

discrepancies repaired as described in part 43 of this chapter. 

6. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.407(a)(l) 

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, 

or alteration, subsection ( a)(l ), states the following: 

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive 

maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless--

(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under§ 43.7 

ofthis chapter. 

7. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of 

Sections 91.409(a)(l) And 91.409(a)(2). 

Section 91.409, entitled Inspections, subsection (a), states the following: 

(a:) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft 

unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had--

(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been 

approved for return to service by a person authorized by§ 43.7 of this chapter; or 

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 

part 21 of this chapter. 

8 
8. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of 

Sections 91.417(a) And 91.417(b). 

Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records, subsections (a) and (b), state the following: 

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each 

registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods specified 

in paragraph (b) of this section: 

(1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records 

of the 1 00-hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved inspections, 

as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and each engine, propeller, 

rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must include--

(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the 

work performed; and 

(ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and 

(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft 

for return to service. 

(2) Records containing the following information: 

(i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller, and each 

rotor. 

(ii) The current status of life-limited parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, 

rotor, and appliance. 

(iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are 

required to be overhauled on a specified time basis. 

(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the 

last inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and 

its appliances are maintained. 

(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety 

directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safety 

directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves 

recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required. 

(vi) Copies ofthe forms described by§ 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major 

alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and 

appliances. 

9 
(b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods described: 

(1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until 

the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 year after the work is 

performed. 

(2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained and 

transferred with the aircraft at the time the aircraft is sold. 

(3) A list of defects furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of 

this chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is 

approved for return to service. 

C. The Extent Of Relief BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks And The Reason 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks The Relief. 

1. Extent Of Relief BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks And The Reason BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (b). 

Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in 

command, is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a private pilot or higher level 

certificate, as well as a current and valid airman medical certificate, and who has met certain flighthour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation 

or hire. 

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) state that a private 

pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or 

employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft 

does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire. 

As set forth more fully below, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC submits that an equivalent level 

of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS 

unless that PIC has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC 

is able to safely operate either the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations 

specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well 

as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Further, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, 

conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC'S business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation 

or hire. 

2. Extent Of Relief BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks And The Reason BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a). 

10 
Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, is requested to the extent required 

to allow BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in 

airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the 

operating documents (i.e., the ENGINEERING, LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly 

Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do 

not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F .R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in airworthy 

condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance 

Log, and DJI Phantom 3) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft is in condition 

for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below. 

3. Extent Of Relief BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks And The Reason BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Relief From Section 91.121. 

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow flight operations 

of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a 

radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC 

at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information 

concerning UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level 

(AGL), BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 

UA's altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure 

or field altitude, before each flight. 

Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CPR 91.121 is sought 

to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and limitations stated below. As 

more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJI Phantom 

3 UAS is equipped with a barometric pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automatically 

ensures that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and provides 

the PIC with altitude information of the UA on the heads-up display of the GCS. 

4. Extent Of Relief BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks And The Reason BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b ). 

Relief from Section 91.151 (b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, is requested 

to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight 

hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total 

duration of 23 minutes. BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks the requested relief because 

without an exemption from Section 91.151 (b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight 

operations that BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. 

11 
Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, the DJI 

Phantom 3 operating documents, and BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S proposed operating 

limitations, ensure that BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will safely operate the battery powered 

DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under 

visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of23 minutes. 

5. Extent Of Relief BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks And The Reason BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & 

(a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b). 

Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to 

aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC requests relief from 

these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS does not require airworthiness certificates. As set 

forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for 

operation without an airworthine.ss certificate. Accordingly, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC 

will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the 

UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices described in the UAS operating documents (i.e., 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and 

DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will 

document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS. 

D. The Reasons Why Granting BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Request Would Be In 

The Public Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public As A Whole. 

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and 

photography of construction sites, highway and roadway inspections, roof inspections, bridge 

inspections, and other civic landscape over certain areas of the United States. 

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce 

pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC'S proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be realized without 

implicating any privacy issues. 

1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS. 

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS are battery powered and serve as a safe, efficient, and economical 

alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the 

amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use 

of a DJI Phantom 3 UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise 

and air pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground. 

12 
Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, congestion around 

airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS does 

not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial 

video and photography missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic 

control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations. 

2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS. 

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will 

greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated 

during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations. By using battery power and 

electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS produces no air pollution, and is the most viable 

environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine 

aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 

20-30 gallons per hour ofleaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS, while reducing the carbon 

footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the UAS is propelled by battery 

powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine. 

By using the DJI Phantom 3 UAS to perform aerial acquisitions, the substantial risk to life and 

property in the air and on the ground, which is usually associated with traditional manned aircraft 

flight operations, will be substantially reduced or completely eliminated. Aside from the lack of 

flight crew members located onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS (weighing 

approximately 2.8 pounds at their maximum gross weight with diagonal dimension of23.2 inches, 

and with no fuel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property 

on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typically conduct similar 

operations (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a 

length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons). 

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI Phantom 3 UAS 

Will Benefit The Economy. 

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is also an economical alternative 

to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS will allow United States based companies, like BERGMAN ENGINEERING, 

LLC, to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Specifically, with the 

rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") regulatory actions 

phasing out leaded aviation fuels, U.S. owned and operated companies must adopt new and· 

alternative technology in order to remain competitive. Operating the battery powered DJI Phantom 

3 UAS is one such technology that not only allows companies greater operational flexibility 

compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the high operational cost of a 

traditional manned aircraft. 

By operating the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, companies such as BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC, 

can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability to employees 

13 
and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved 

financial performance of U.S. companies, through commercial use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, 

provides a stable workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal 

tax revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain 

competitive both in the United States and abroad. 

4. There Are No Privacy Issues. 

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for decades, 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not 

implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be operated only in 

compliance with operating documents (i.e., BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Aerial Operations 

Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) which requires 

property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement notification, and in accordance with 

the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.P.R. § 

91.119. 

E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, Or How 

The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That Provided By The 

Rule From Which BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption. 

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Meets The Conditions Of The FAA Modernization 

and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333. 

In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the 

unmanned aircraft and its operation, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS meets the conditions ofFMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness 

certificate in accordance with 14 C.F .R. Part 21, Subpart H. 

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certification and sets 

forth requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the 

public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the 

following, in part: 

(a) In GeneraL--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not later 

than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation 

shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national 

airspace system before completion of the plan and rulemaking required by section 332 

of this Act or the guidance required by section 334 of this Act. 

(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the determination under 

subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum--

(1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, 

weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and populated 

areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users 

14 
of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national 

security; and 

(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness 

certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for 

the operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under paragraph (1). 

(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--lf the Secretary determines under this section 

that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace 

system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such 

aircraft systems in the national airspace system. 

In seeking this exemption, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC submits that the DJI Phantom 3 

UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the 

characteristics of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the 

specific operating limitations. 

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Demonstrates Its Safe Characteristics. 

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS does not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise 

pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability. 

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS. 

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth by the DJI Phantom 3 User 

Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A. 

ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Global Positioning Modes Enables The UAS To Remain 

Within A Defined Operational Area. 

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and global positioning flight modes. A 

complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is provided 

at pages 11 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual attached hereto as Appendix A. 

iii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS is Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or 

Hover In The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation. 

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 

seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS does not reacquire control link data 

from the GCS, the UAS will assume that the Control Link is lost and the will return to the horne 

position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shut down. 

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is set forth at pages 

12 through 14 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A. 

iv. The DJI Phantom 3 GCS And Its Operation. 

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 GCS and flight 

control software is provided at pages 23 through 29 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual. DJI 

Phantom 3 User Manual is attached hereto as Appendix A. 

15 
b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Is Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A 

Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer. 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC video production staff will be the only persons to act as a pilot 

in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist him at 

all times during flight time. 

c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating 

Limitations. 

In seeking this exemption, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC proposes to commercially operate 

DJI Phantom 3 UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over 

certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations. 

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the following 

aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UAS weighing less than 55 

pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed 

operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this 

grant. 

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the 

purpose of aerial video and photography. 

3. The UAS may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots. 

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level 

(AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operating documents unless a 

special request is made and approved by ATC. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in 

feetAGL. 

5. 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 FAA-issued airman medical certificate. 

6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not permitted. 

7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to satisfy the 

VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The SO and 

PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. Electronic messaging or texting 

is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC must be designated before the flight 

and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must 

ensure that the SO can perform the functions described in the operating documents. 

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and 

avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not 

permitted to operate the camera or other instruments. 

9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during UAS 

operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists 

16 
between the conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption and the 

procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions and limitations 

contained in the grant of exemption take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, 

the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating documents. The 

operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator's responsibility 

to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator 

upon request. The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it 

petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the operator 

determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA 

granted the exemption, then the operator must petition for amendment to its grant of 

exemption. The FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) may be contacted if questions 

arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents. 

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that 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 must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations 

must be properly documented in the aircraft records. 

11. 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. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must 

make an entry in the aircraft records. 

12. The pre-flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g. 

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

sections of the operating documents. 

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

maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements. 

14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping 

requirements, in accordance with the operating documents. Maintenance, inspection, 

alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul component parts must be noted in the 

aircraft records, including total time in service, description of work accomplished, and 

the signature of the authorized person returning the UAS to service. 

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

Bulletins. 

16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the corrective 

action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections. 

17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current thirdclass medical certificate. 

17 
18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator's 

qualification criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner 

consistent with how the UAS will be operated under the exemption, including evasive 

and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, 

vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification flight hours must be logged in a 

manner consistent with 14 C.P.R. § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the 

operator's PICs are permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training 

operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training, 

proficiency, and experience-building flights, all persons not essential for flight 

operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with 

appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F .R. § 91.119. 

19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.P.R.§ 1.1. 

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

flight at night is required, a special request will he made at the FAA office closest to 

the proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are 

not authorized. 

20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as 

denoted on a current FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement 

with that airport's management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in 

accordance with a NO TAM as required by the operator's COA. The letter of agreement 

with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon request. 

21. The UA 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. 

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a predetermined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in 

accordance with the operating documents. 

23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event ofunpredicted obstacles or emergencies 

in accordance with the operating documents. 

24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast 

weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the 

intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power remaining. 

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

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

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

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

operation. All operations shall be conducted in accordance with airspace requirements 

in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace, altitude level and potential 

transponder requirements. 

18 
26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by serial 

number, registered in accordance with 14 C.P.R. part 47, and have identification (NNumber) markings in accordance with 14 C.P.R. part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be 

as large as practicable. 

27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and 

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

or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements. 

28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.P.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to 

the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the UAS is operating. These 

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

upon request. 

29. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation 

operations and activities at all times. 

30. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle. 

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating 

persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, 

vehicles, and structures unless: 

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating 

persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must 

ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation 

arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 

feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or; 

b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the 

owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission 

and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those 

objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, and; 

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not 

present an undue hazard to those persons per§ 91.119(a). 

32. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property with 

permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission 

from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight 

to be conducted. 

33. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 

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

to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) 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. 

19 
2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would 

Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC submits that the equivalent level of safety established by 

Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency 

requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent 

with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate 

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Considering BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S proposed area of operations, and the operating 

limitations set forth-above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge 

requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11 062); and the 

airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a 

commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S specific proposed flight operations. 

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 

11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 

11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS 

unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour requirements or the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency 

maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 C.P.R. § 

61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5 hours of those 

hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model ofUAS to be used for operations under 

the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and 

landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). 

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was 

obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of safety during 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S proposed operations. The Administrator has held that prior 

documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would 

ensure safe operations, stating as follows: 

In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for the 

purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have accumulated 

and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CPR 61.51(b), 25 hours oftotal time as a UAS 

rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a multi-rotor UAS. 

20 
Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the PIC must also have accumulated and 

logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS 

to be used for operations under the exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these 

minimum hour requirements to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and 

model time may be included in the 10 hours of multi-rotor time and the 10 hours may be 

included in the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, 

the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency 

purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight-hour requirements in Exemption 

No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the skills necessary to safely 

conduct the petitioner's proposed operations. The FAA also finds that prior documented 

flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would satisfy 

this requirement. Training, proficiency, and experience-building flights can also be 

conducted under the grant of exemption to accomplish the required flight time. During 

training, proficiency, and experience-building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA 

with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119. 

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. 

Accordingly, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will ensure safe operations by not allowing any 

PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum 

flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 

UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) Would Not 

Adversely Affect Safety. 

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to 

every flight, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an 

airworthy condition based upon the UAS's compliance with its operating documents and as stated 

in the conditions and limitations herein. 

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 

11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 

11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121 Would Not 

Adversely Affect Safety. 

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because the 

altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment 

21 
and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for 

active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of 

sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The 

altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to 

each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UAS at ground level. 

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in circumstances 

similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 

11064,11065,11066,11067,11080,11109,11112,11136,11138,11150,11153,11156,11157, 

11158,11159,11160, 11161). 

5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b) Would Not 

Adversely Affect Safety. 

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F .R. 

Section 91.151(b) as a result of(l) the technical specifications ofthe DJI Phantom 3 UAS; (2) the 

limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. 

Accordingly, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will ensure that it will safely operate the battery 

powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power 

to fly for a total duration of 23 minutes. 

Here, as in Exemption No. Ill 09, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS; the 

limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will 

ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.P.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, 

safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS provides audible and visual warnings to the PIC 

at the GCS when the UAS experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at 

approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery 

power. At the critically low battery level, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will descend and land 

automatically. 

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that 

safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the 

UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned aircraft to operate at less than the 

minimums described in Section 91.151, including Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. 

Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 

8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 

11136,11138,11150,11153,11156,11157,11158,11159,11160, 11161). 

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not Adversely 

Affect Safety. 

22 
In seeking this exemption, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC submits that the equivalent level 

of safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by 

Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, 

alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices 

described in the operating documents (i.e., BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Aerial Operations 

Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will document and maintain all maintenance records for the 

DJI Phantom 3 UAS. 

Since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be inspected as described by the operating documents, 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by 

Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(l), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals 

are attached hereto as Appendix A and B; a copy of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS Maintenance LOG is 

attached hereto as Appendix C. 

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or 

preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices described by the 

operating documents. 

Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety established by 

Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS 

will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained 

utilizing the monthly maintenance log. 

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 

91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not adversely 

affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered. 

In consideration of BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S proposed operating limitations, the 

operating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting exemption 

from 14 C.P.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). 

The FAA has previously granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances similar, in all material 

respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 

11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 

11160, 11161). 

7. The FAA May Describe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation. 

In accordance with Section 333 ofthe FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012 (FMRA) and 

14 C.P.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC requests that 

the FAA describe special conditions for the intended operation ofthe DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which 

contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety 

equivalent to that established by 14 C.P.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 

23 
91.7 (a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAS for the limited purpose of 

conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation 

or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create 

a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and 

further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in 

accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe operation of the UAS in 

the NAS. 

Likewise, the Administrator may describe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F .R. 

§ 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, since the airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F .R. 

Part 21 do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards, due to the novel or unusual design 

features ofthe aircraft. Section 21.16, entitled Special Conditions, states the following: 

If the FAA finds that the airworthiness regulations of this subchapter do not contain 

adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller 

because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller, he 

describes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special 

conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety 

standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to 

establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in the regulations. 

See 14 C.P.R.§ 21.16. 

Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.P.R. § 21.16, the FAA may describe 

special conditions for BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC's intended operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to 

establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.P.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 

C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) 

& (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

• A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The 

Rules From Which BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC Seeks Exemption: 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R 

Sections 61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) 

& (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC 

Seeks: 

This exemption will permit BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC to commercially operate an 

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and 

photography over certain areas of the United States. 

24 
• Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support 

BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S Request. 

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of20 12 (FMRA) 

Section 33 3, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may 

operate safely in the NAS. As such, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC'S request for 

exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority ofFMRA Section 333 and 14 C.P.R. 

Part 11, as set forth above. 

FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard 

to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, 

provides the authority for such UAS to operate without an airworthiness certification. 

As discussed in detail above, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC will operate the DJI Phantom 3 

UAS safely in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, or otherwise 

pose a threat to national security. 

25 
CONCLUSION 

As set forth herein, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F .R. 

§ 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012 (FMRA), which will 

permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially, without an airworthiness 

certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas 

of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the 

Congressional mandate ofthe FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012, while also advancing 

the interests of the public, by allowing BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC to safely, efficiently, 

and economically operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially within the NAS. 

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, BERGMAN ENGINEERING, LLC 

respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the 

requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 

91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit BERGMAN 

ENGINEERING, LLC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of 

conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. 

Dated: August 14, 2015 

~ ~m:...i-tt-ed_, __ _ 

~gma.E. Owner/Member 

Bergman Engineering, LLC 

410 Main Street, Suite 500 

Harleysville, PA 19438 

215-256-4861 -telephone 

215-513-1555- fax 

kbergman@bergmanengineering.net 

Appendices: 

A- Link to DJI Phantom 3 Manual: Click on link below 

http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom 3/en/Phantom 3 Professional User Manual vl.2 en.pdf 

26 
PHANTOM 3 

( PROFESSIONAL ) 

User Manual (v1.2] 

2015.07 
Using this manual 

0 Warning & Important :\;): Hints and Tips g§] Reference 

Read the following documents before using the Phantom 3 Professional: 

1.1ntheBox 

2. Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

3. Phantom 3 Professional Quick Start Guide 

4. Phantom 3 Professional I Advanced Safety Guidelines and Disclaimer 

5. Phantom 3 Professional I Advanced Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines 

We recommend that you watch all tutorial videos on the official DJI website and read the Disclaimer 

before you fly. Prepare for your first flight by reviewing the Phantom 3 Professional Quick Start Guide and 

refer to the User Manual for rnore detailed information. 

Please watch the tutorial videos at the link below, which demonstrates how to use Phantom 3 Professional 

safely: 

http://www.dji.corn/product/phantom-3/video 

Download and install the DJI Pilot app before using the aircraft. Scan the OR code to the right 

to download the latest version. 

The Android version of the DJI Pilot app is compatible with Android 4.1.2 or later. 

The iOS version of the DJI Pilot app is compatible with iOS 8.0 or later. 

© 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved. 

~ 

R 
Contents 

Using this manual 

Legends 2 

Read Before the First Flight 2 

Video Tutorials 2 

Download the DJI Pilot app 2 

Product Profile 

Introduction 6 

Feature Highlights 6 

Preparing the Aircraft 7 

Aircraft Diagram 8 

Remote Controller Diagram 8 

Aircraft 

Flight Controller 11 

Flight Mode 11 

Flight Status Indicator 11 

Return-to-Home (RTH) 12 

Smart RTH 12 

Low Battery RTH 13 

Failsafe RTH 14 

Vision Positioning System 14 

Flight Recorder 16 

Attaching and Detaching the Propellers 16 

DJI Intelligent Flight Battery 17 

Remote Controller 

Remote Controller Profile 23 

Using the Remote Controller 23 

Remote Controller Status LED 27 

Linking the Remote Controller 28 

Remote Controller Compliance Version 29 

© 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved 3 
Camera and Gimbal 

Camera Profile 31 

Gimbal 32 

DJI Pilot App 

Camera 35 

Director 38 

Store 38 

Discovery 38 

Flight 

Flight Environment Requirements 40 

Flight Limits and No-Fly Zones 40 

Preflight Checklist 44 

Calibrating the Compass 44 

Auto Takeoff and Auto Landing 45 

Flight Test 46 

Starting/Stopping the Motors 46 

Troubleshooting (FAQ) 

Appendix 

Specifications 54 

Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) 56 

FCC Compliance 57 

4 © 2015 OJ I. All Rights Reserved 
Product Profile 

This section introduces the Phantom 3 

Professional and lists the components of 

the aircraft and remote controller. 

© 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved. 5 
Product Profile 

The Phantom 3 Professional represents the.next generation of DJI quadcopters. It is capable of capturing 

4K video and transmitting an HD video signal out of the box. The built-in camera has an integrated gimbal 

to maximize stability while minimizing both weight and size. Even when no GPS signal is available, the 

Vision Positioning System allows the aircraft to hover accurately in place. 

Camera and Gimbal: With the Phantom 3 Professional, you're shooting 4K video at up to 30 frames per 

second and capturing 12 megapixel photos that.look crisper and cleaner than ever. An enhanced sensor 

gives you greater clarity, lower noise, and better pictures than any previous flying camera. 

HD Video Downlink: The low-latency long range HD downlink is powered by an enhanced version of DJI 

Lightbridge. 

DJI Intelligent Flight Battery: The 4480 mAh DJI Intelligent Flight Battery features upgraded battery cells 

and an advanced power management system. 

Flight Controller: The next-generation flight controller has been updated to provide a safer, more reliable 

flight experience. A newly implemented flight recorder stores critical data from each flight and the Vision 

Positioning System enhances hovering precision when flying indoors or in environments where GPS is 

unavailable. 

© 2015 OJL All Rights Reserved 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Removing Gimbal Clamp 

Remove the gimbal clamp by sliding it to the right (when facing the nose of the aircraft), as shown below. 

Attaching the Propellers: 

Mount the propellers with black dots on to motors with black axes and spin counter-clockwise to secure. 

Mount the propellers with sliver dots on to motors with sliver axes and spin clockwise to secure. Be sure 

all propellers are securely in place. 

LG Place all propellers onto the correct motors and tighten by hand to lock them in position. 

Preparing the Remote Controller: 

The mobile device holder is designed for securing tablet or mobile device. Tilt the mobile device holder to 

the desired position, then adjust the antennas so they are facing outward. 

1. Press the button on the top right side of the mobile device holder to release the clamp, then adjust the 

clamp to fit the size of your mobile device. 

2. Secure your mobile device in the clamp by pressing down, and connect your mobile device to the 

remote controller using a USB cable. 

3. Plug one end of the cable into the mobile device, and the other end into the USB port on the back of 

the remote controller. 

© 2015 OJI All R"1ghts Reserved. 7 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

[1] 

[2] 

[3] [1] GPS 

[8] [4] [2] Propeller 

[7] [3] Motor 

[6] [5] 

[4] Front LED Indicator 

"lJ 

0 [5] Landing gear 0. 

c 

Sl [9] [6] Gimbal and Camera 

"lJ [10] g [11] [7] Camera Status Indicator 

ro 

[8] Aircraft Micro-USB Port 

[12] 

[9] Air:g[aft Status Indicator 

[1 0] Intelligent Flight Battery 

[11] Vision Positioning Sensors 

[13] [12] Antennas 

[13] Camera Micro-SO Card Slot 

[14] Camera Micro-USB Port 

[15] Link Button 

[15] [14] 

[1] Antennas 

Relays aircraft control and 

[1] video signal. 

[2] [2] Mobile Device Holder 

Securely mounts your mobile 

device to the remote controller. 

[3] [3] Control Stick [8] [4] [7] Controls the orientation and 

[6] [5] movement of the aircraft. 

[4] Return Home (RTH) Button 

Press and hold the button to 

initiate Return to Home (RTH). 

8 © 2015 OJ I. All R1ghts Reserved 
[5] Battery Level LEOs 

Displays the battery level of the remote 

controller. 

[6] Status LED 

Displays the remote controller's system status. 

[7] Power Button 

Used to turn the remote controller on and off. 

[8] RTH LED 

Circular LED around the RTH button displays 

RTH status. 

[9] Camera Settings Dial 

Turn the dial to adjust camera settings. 

(Only functions when the remote controller is 

connected to a mobile device running the OJI 

Pilotapp.) 

[1 0] Playback Button 

Playback the captured images or videos. 

(Only functions when the remote controller is 

connected to a mobile device running the OJI 

Pilotapp.) 

[11] Shutter Button 

Press to take a photo. If burst mode is 

selected, the set number of photos will be 

taken with one press. 

[12] Flight Mode Switch 

Switch between P-mode, A-mode, and 

F-mode. 

[13] Video Recording Button 

Press to start recording video. Press again to 

stop recording. 

[17] C1 Button 

Customizable through the DJI Pilot app. 

[18] C2 Button 

Customizable through the OJI Pilot app. 

[19] Power Port 

Connect to the OJI Phantom 3 Charger to 

charge the battery of the remote controller. 

Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

[15] [16] 

[14] _-,L){~\f"1--r="'ifi~ll+-- [9] 

~~ ~~ 

[12] [11] 

[14] Gimbal Dial 

Use this dial to control the tilt of the gimbal. 

[15] Mircro-USB Port 

Connect to a SO card reader to upgrade the 

firmware. 

[16] USB Port 

Connect to mobile device or to a USB port for 

firmware upgrade. 

© 2015 OJ! All Rights Reserved. 
Aircraft 

This section introduces the features of 

the Flight Controller, Vision Positioning 

System, and the Intelligent Flight Battery 

1 0 © 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved. 
Aircraft 

The Phantom 3 Professional's flight controller features several important upgrades, including a new flight 

mode. Safety modes include Failsafe and Return-to-Home. These features ensure the safe return of your 

aircraft if the control signal is lost. The flight controller can also save critical flight data from each flight 

to the on-board storage device. The new flight controller also provides increased stability and a new air 

braking feature. 

Three flight modes are available. The details of each flight mode are found below: :!?. 

P-mode (Positioning) : P-mode works best when GPS signal is strong. There are three different states Q 

of P-mode, which will be automatically selected by the Phantom 3 Professional depending on signal ~ 

strength of GPS and Vision Positioning sensors : 

P-GPS: GPS and Vision Positioning both are available. The aircraft is using GPS for positioning. 

P-OPTI: Vision Positioning is available but the GPS signal strength is not suffic~ent. The aircraft is 

using only the Vision Positioning System for positioning. -· 

P-ATTI: Neither GPS nor Vision Positioning is available. The aircraft is using only its barometer for 

positioning, so only altitude can be stabilized. 

A-mode (Attitude): GPS and Vision Positioning System are not used for stabilization. The aircraft only uses 

its barometer. The aircraft can still automatically return to the home point if the control signal is lost and 

the Home Point was recorded successfully. 

F-mode (Function): Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) is activated in this mode. For more information 

about IOC, refer to the IOC section in the Appendix. 

:<J; Use the Flight Controller mode switch to change the flight mode of the aircraft, refer to the "Flight 

Mode Switch" on Page 26 for more information. 

The Phantom 3 Professional has Front LEOs and Aircraft Status Indicators. The positions of these LEOs 

are shown in the figure below: 

Aircraft Status Indicator 

Front LED 

The Front LEOs show the orientation of the aircraft. The Front LEOs glow solid red when the aircraft is 

turned on to indicate the front (or nose) of the aircraft. The Aircraft Status Indicators communicate the 

system status of the flight controller. Refer to the table below for more information about the Aircraft Status 

Indicators: 

© 2015 DJI_ All Rights Reserved 11 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

'®:-:~:-:@ ...... Red, Green and Yellow Flash 

Alternatively Turning On and Self Diagnostic Testing 

:1/!if]$: ...... : Gr~en and Yellow Flash Alternatively Warming Up 

1$;:· · · · · · · Green Flashes Slowly 

:~)(2 · · · ···Green FlashesTwice 

:@-·····Yellow Flashes Slowly 

:@·······Fast Yellow Flashing 

:Jt!f:· · ,. •: Slow Red Flashing 

:®:······Fast Red Flashing 

.-®,:······Red Flashing Alternatively 

Jf!!:-Solid Red 

Safe to Fly (P-rnode with GPS and Vision 

Positioning) 

Safe to FlY (Pcmode wlth Vi_sion Positioning but 

without GPS) 

Safe to Fly (A-mode but No GPS and Vision 

Positioning) 

Remote Controller's Signal Lost 

Low Battery Warning 

Critical Battery Warning 

IMU Error 

Critical Error 

:Jt!f.-:@ · · · · · · Red and Yellow Flash Alternatively 

The Return-to-Horne (RTH) function brings the aircraft back to the last recorded Horne Point. There are 

three types of RTH procedures: Smart RTH, Low Battery RTH, and Failsafe RTH. This section describes 

these three scenarios in detail. 

Horne Point ~111ll 

If a strong GPS signal was acquired before takeoff, the Horne Point 

is the location from which the aircraft was launched. The GPS signal 

strength is indicated by the GPS icon ( ~~1111 ). The aircraft status 

indicator will blink rapidly when the horne point is recorded. 

Use the RTH button on the remote controller (refer to "RTH button" on page 26 for more information) or 

tap the RTH button in the OJI Pilot app and follow the on-screen instructions when GPS is available to 

initiate Smart RTH. The aircraft will then automatically return to the last recorded Horne Point. You may use 

the remote controller's control sticks to control the aircraft's position to avoid a collision during the Smart 

RTH process. Press and hold the Smart RTH button once to start the process, and press the Smart RTH 

button again to terminate the procedure and regain full control of the aircraft. 

12 © 2015 OJI All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

The low battery level failsafe is triggered when the DJI Intelligent Flight Battery is depleted to a point that 

may affect the safe return of the aircraft. Users are advised to return home or land the aircraft immediately 

when prompted. The DJI Pilot app will display a notice when a low battery warning is triggered. The 

aircraft will automatically return to the Home Point if no action is taken after a ten-second countdown. The 

user can cancel the RTH procedure by pressing the RTH button on the remote controller. The thresholds 

for these warnings are automatically determined based on the aircraft's current altitude and distance from 

the Home Point. 

The aircraft will land automatically if the current battery level can only support the aircraft long enough 

to descend from its current altitude. The user can still use the remote controller to alter the aircraft's 

orientation during the landing process. 

The Battery Level Indicator is displayed in the DJI Pilot app, and is described below: 

Low battery 

level warning 

CritiQal Low 

battery level 

warning 

Estimated 

remaining 

flighttirne 

Critical Low battery level 

warning(Red) 

Sufficient battery 

levei(Green) 

Low battery 

level warning(Yellow) Remaining flight time 

-o----.6-~--L--1 

. The battery 

power is low. 

Please land the 

aircraft. 

The aircraft 

. must land 

· imniediat(3ly. 

Estimated 

remaining flight 

based on current 

battery level. 

Power requires 

to return home 

Battery level Indicator 

Aircraft status 

indicator blinks 

RED slowly. 

. Aircraft sta:_tus 

' indicator blinks 

RED quickly: 

N/A 

· aircraft return to the Home ' Fly the aircraft 

point and land automatically, back and land 

: or "Cancel" to resume normal it as soon as 

i flight. If no action is taken, possible, then 

the aircraft will automatically · stop the motors 

go home and land after 10 and replace the 

seconds. Remote controller · battery. 

will sound an alarm. 

The DJI Pilo_ t app display will All h . . ft . , : . , . . · ow t e arrcra to 

· flash red an(jthe ar~craftwrll l descend and lahd 

, start to descend. The remote · 

controllervvill sourid ahal~~- · automatically. 

N/A N/A 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 13 
Phantom 3 Professional User Jvlanual 

:(j: • When Critical battery level warning is triggered and the aircraft begins to land automatically, 

you may push the throttle upward to make the aircraft hover at its current altitude, giving you an 

opportunity to navigate to a more appropriate landing location. 

• The colored zones and markers on the battery level indicator bar reflect the estimated 

remaining flight time. They are automatically adjusted according to the aircraft's current location 

and status. 

If the Horne Point was successfully recorded and the compass is functioning normally, Failsafe RTH will 

be automatically activated if the remote controller signal is lost for more than three seconds. The Returnto-Horne process may be interrupted and the operator may regain control of the aircraft if the remote 

controller signal connection is re-established. 

Failsafe Illustration 

1 Record Horne Point 2 Confirming Horne Point 

~IIIII 

3 Remote Controller Signal Lost 

~ @ 

Blinking Green Blinking Green Fast Blinking Yellow 

4 Signal Lost Lasts (after 3 sec.) 5 RTH (adjustable altitude) 6 Landing (after hoverilg for 5 sees) 

>3S 

@ 

Fast Blinking Yellow 

& • Aircraft cannot return to the Horne Point when GPS signal is weak ( [ ~,11lll displays grey) or 

unavailable. 

• Aircraft automatically descends and lands if RTH is triggered when the aircraft flies within a 20 

meters (65 feet) radius of the Horne Point. Aircraft will stop ascending and immediately return to 

the Horne Point if you move the throttle stick if the aircraft reaches 20 meters (65 feet) altitudes 

or beyond during Failsafe. 

• The aircraft cannot avoid obstruction during the Failsafe RTH, therefore, it is important to set a 

suitable Failsafe altitude before each flight. Launch the DJI Pilot app and enter "Camera" and 

select "MODE > Advanced Settings > Failsafe mode" to set the Failsafe altitude. 

• User cannot control the aircraft while the aircraft is ascending to its failsafe altitude. However 

the user can press Smart RTH button to regain control to cancel the ascending. 

The DJI Vision Positioning System uses ultrasound and image data to help the aircraft maintain its current 

position. With the help of Vision Positioning, your Phantom 3 Professional can hover in place more precisely 

and fly indoors or in other environments where a GPS signal is not available. The main components of the 

Vision Positioning System are located on the bottom of your Phantom 3 Professional; they include [2] two 

ultrasonic sensors and [1] one monocular camera. 

14 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 
Using Vision Positioning 

Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

[1] 

[2] 

Vision Positioning is activated automatically when the Phantom 3 Professional is turned on. No 

further action is required. Vision Positioning is typically used in indoor environments. where GPS 

is unavailable. Using the sensors that are built into the Vision Positioning system, the Phantom 3 

Professional can hover precisely even without GPS. 

~ ./ 

~ _g_ 

L ~ 

~ 

Follow 

1. Toggle 

the steps 

the flight 

below 

mode 

to use 

switch 

Vision 

toP-mode. 

Positioning: e ~ r 

2. Place the aircraft on a flat surface. Note that the Vision Positioning systern cannot work '. 

properly on surfaces without clear pattern variations. 

3. Turn on the aircraft. The aircraft status indicator will flash green two times, which indicates the Vision Positioning systern is ready. Gently push the throttle up to lift off and the aircraft will 

hover in place. 

& The performance of your Vision Positioning Systern is affected by the surface over which it is 

flying. The ultrasonic sensors may not be able to accurately measure distances when operating 

above sound-absorbing materials. In addition, the camera rnay not function correctly in 

suboptimal environments. The aircraft will switch frorn P-mode to A-rnode automatically if neither 

GPS nor Vision Positioning System are available. Operate the aircraft with great caution in the 

following situations: 

• Flying over monochrome surfaces (e.g. pure black, pure white, pure red, pure green). 

• Flying over a highly reflective surfaces. 

• Flying at high speeds( over 8 m/s at 2 meters or over 4 m/s at 1 rneter). 

• Flying over water or transparent surfaces. 

• Flying over moving surfaces or objects. 

• Flying in an area where the lighting changes frequently or drastically. 

• Flying over extremely dark (lux< 10) or bright (lux> 100,000) surfaces. 

• Flying over surfaces that can absorb sound waves (e.g. thick carpet). 

• Flying over surfaces without clear patterns or texture. 

• Flying over surfaces with identical repeating patterns or textures (e.g. tiles with the same design) . 

• Flying over inclined surfaces that will deflect sound waves away frorn the aircraft. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 15 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

:<J • Keep the sensors clean at all times. Dirt or other debris may adversely affect the effectiveness 

of the sensors. 

• Vision Positioning is only effective when the aircraft is at altitudes of 0.3 to 3 meters. 

• The Vision Positioning System may not function properly when the aircraft is flying over water. 

• The Vision Positioning System may not be able to recognize pattern on the ground in low light 

conditions (less than 100 lux). 

• Do not use other ultrasonic devices with frequency of 40 KHz when Vision Positioning system is 

in operation. 

• Vision Positioning Systern may not be able to stabilize the aircraft when flying close to the 

ground (below 0.5 rneters) at fast speeds .. 

?. 0 Keep the animals away from the aircraft when Vision Positioning system is activated. The sonar 

0 sensor emits high frequency sounds that are only audible to some animals. 

OJ 

;::p 

Flight data is automatically recorded to the internal storage of the aircraft. This includes flight 

telemetry, aircraft status information, and other parameters. To access these data, connect the 

aircraft to the PC through the Micro-USB port and launch the DJI Pilot app. 

Use only DJI approved propellers with your Phantom 3 Professional. The grey and black nuts on 

the propeller indicate where they should be attached and in which direction whey should spin. To 

attach the propellers properly, match the nut color with the motor axis color. 

Attach On 

Legends 

Motors with a grey axes Motors with a black axes 

B"") Lock: Turn the propellers in the indicated direction to mount and tighten. 

'b") Unlock: Turn the propellers in the indicated direction to loosen and remove. 

Attaching the Propellers 

1. Be sure to remove the warning stickers from the motors before attaching the propellers. 

2. Attach the propellers with silver dots onto the motors with silver axes and spin the propellers clockwise 

to secure them in place. Attach the propellers with black dots onto the rnotors with black axes and spin 

the propellers counter-clockwise to secure them in place. Be sure to tighten each propeller by hand 

before flight. 

A~ 

)(,X/ 

16 © 2015 DJL All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Lt, • Ensure propellers are attached to its corresponding motors, otherwise the aircraft cannot take off. 

• Wear gloves when handling propellers. 

• Hand tighten each of the propellers on the corresponding motors to ensure it is attached firmly. 

Detaching the Propellers 

Hold the motor in place with one hand, then spin the propeller in the indicated unlock direction. 

Lt, • Check that the propellers and motors are installed correctly and firmly before every flight. 

• Ensure that all propellers are in good condition before each flight. DO NOT use aged, chipped, 

or broken propellers. 

• To avoid injury, STAND CLEAR of and DO NOT touch propellers or motors when they are spinning. 

• ONLY use original DJI propellers for a better and safer flight experience. 

The DJI Intelligent Flfght Battery has a capacity of 4480 mAh, a voltage of 15.2 V, and a smart charge/ 

discharge functionality. It should only be charged using an appropriate charger that has been approved 

byDJI. 

~~ Charger 

Intelligent Flight Battery 

Lt, The Intelligent Flight Battery must be fully charged before using it for the first time. Refer to 

"Charging the Intelligent Flight Battery" for more information. 

'\)' Be aware that the output power of the supplied Phantom 3 Professional charger is 1 OOW. 

DJIIntelligent Flight Battery Functions 

1. Battery Level Display: the LED indicators display the current battery level. 

2. Battery Life Display: the LEOs display the current battery power cycle. 

3. Auto-Discharging Function: To prevent swelling, the battery automatically discharges to below 65% of 

total power when it is idle for more than ten days. It takes around two days to discharge the battery to 

65%. It is normal to feel moderate heat being emitted from the battery during the discharge process. 

Discharge thresholds can be set in the DJI Pilot app. 

4. Balanced Charging: Automatically balances the voltage of each battery cell when charging. 

5. Overcharge Protection: Charging automatically stops when the battery is fully charged. 

6. Temperature Detection: The battery will only charge when the temperature is between ooc (32°F) and 

40°C (104°F). 

7. Over Current Protection: The battery stops charging when high amperage (more than 8 A) is detected. 

8. Over Discharge Protection: To prevent over-discharge damage, discharging automatically stops when 

the battery voltage reaches 12 V. 

9. Short Circuit Protection: Automatically cuts the power supply when a short circuit is detected. 

© 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved 17 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

10. Battery Cell Damage Protection: The DJI Pilot app displays a warning message when a damaged 

battery cell is detected. 

11. Battery Error History: Browse the battery error history in the DJI Pilot app. 

12. Sleep Mode: To save power, the battery enters sleep mode after 20 minutes of inactivity. 

13. Communication: Information pertaining to the battery's voltage, capacity, current, etc. is transmitted to 

the aircraft's main controller. 

&, Refer to Phantom 3 Professional I Advanced Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines before 

use. Users take full responsibility for all operations and usage. 

;:t:: Using the Battery 

a LED1 

~ LED2 

Turning ON/OFF 

y~::f.iiii!iir"-LED3 ,----T--LED4 

Power Button (Bulit-in LED) 

'---~==-"--Battery Level lnclit:8tors 

Turning On: Press the Power Button once, then press again and hold for 2 seconds to turn on. The 

Power LED will turn red and the Battery Level Indicators will display the current battery level. 

Turning Off: Press the Power Button once, then press again and hold for 2 seconds to turn off. The 

battery power LED will flash when powering off the Phantom to allow automatically stopping 

of a recording during the event recording wasn't stopped. 

Low Temperature Notice: 

1. Battery capacity is significantly reduced when flying in low temperature ( < 0°C) environments. 

2. It is not recommended that the battery be used in extremely low temperature ( < -10°C) environments. 

Battery voltage should reach the appropriate level when operating environment with temperatures 

between -1 ooc and 5°C. 

3. End the flight as soon as the OJI Pilot app displays the "Low Battery Level Warning" in low temperature 

environments. 

4. Keep the battery indoors to warm it before flying in low temperature environments. 

5. To ensure optimal performance of the battery, keep the battery temperature above 20°C. 

6. The charger will stop charging the battery if the battery cell's temperature is not within the operating 

range (0°C - 40°C ). 

&, In cold environments, insert the battery into the battery compartment and allow the aircraft for 

approximately 1-2 minutes to warm up before taking off. 

Checking the Battery Level 

The Battery Level Indicators display how much power remains. When the battery is turned off, press 

the Power Button once. The Battery Level Indicators will light up to display the current battery level. See 

below for details. 

18 © 2015 DJ! All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

I:I:J The Battery Level Indicators will also show the current battery level during charging and 

discharging. The indicators are defined below. 

~ : LED is on. ®] : LED is flashing. 

0: LED is off. 

m 

~ 75%...:875%. 

~ rn Q 0 62.5%-75% 

~. m ®] . 0 50%-62.5.% 

B m 0 0 37.5%-50% 

Q ®] 0 0 25%-:-37.5% 

~ 0 0 0 12.5%-25% 

ij 0 0 0 o%-12.5% 

0 0 0 0 =0% 

Battery life 

Battery life refers to how many more times the battery can be discharged and recharged before it must 

be replaced. When the battery is turned off, press and hold the Power Button for 5 seconds to check the 

battery life. The Battery Level Indicators will light up and/or blink for two seconds, as shown below: 

00 

m ~ 

0 0 0 

~ ®! 0 

~ 0 0 

0 0 0 -

~ 0 0 

ij 0 0 

0 0 0 0 

& When battery life reaches 0%, it can no longer be used. 

90%-100% 

80%'--90% 

70%-80% 

E>0%-70% 

50%-60% 

40%-50% 

30%-40% 

20%-.30% 

below20% 

I:I:J For more information about the battery, launch the OJI Pilot app and check the information that is 

listed under the battery tab. 

© 2015 DJI. All R1ghts Reserved 19 

?. 

0 

~ 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Charging the Intelligent Flight Battery 

1. Connect the Battery Charger to a power source (100-240 V 50/60Hz). 

2. Open the Protection Cap and connect the Intelligent Flight Battery to the Battery Charger. If the battery 

level is above 95%, turn on the battery before charging. 

3. The Battery Level Indicator will display the current battery level as it is charging. 

4. The Intelligent Flight Battery is fully charged when the Battery Level Indicators are all off. 

5. Air-cool the Intelligent Flight Battery after each flight. Allow its temperature to drop to roorn temperature 

before storing it for an extended period. 

,1, • We do not recommend charging the Intelligent Flight Battery and remote controller with the 

standard charger at the sarne tirne, otherwise the charger rnay overheat. 

• Always turn off the battery before inserting it or removing it frorn the Phantom 3 Professional. 

Never insert or remove a battery when it is turned on. 

Intelligent Flight Battery 

Battery Protection LED Display 

0 

0 

0 

0 

~ 

0 

Charger Power Outlet 

50%-75% 

Fully Charged 

The table below shows battery protection mechanisms and corresponding LED patterns. 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 0 

20 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 

0 

0 

~ 

~ 

Over current detected 

blinks three times per second Short circuit detected 

Over charge detected 

LED3 blinks threetirnes per second Over-voltage charger detected 

LED4 blinks twice per second Charging temperature is too low 

LED4 blinks three times per second Charging temperature is too high 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

After these issues are resolved, press the Power Button to turn off the Battery Level Indicator. Unplug the 

Intelligent Flight Battery frorn the charger and plug it back in to resurne charging. Note that you do not 

need to unplug and plug in the charger in the event of a roorn tern perature error; the charger will resurne 

charging when the tern perature is within the allowable range. 

& DJI does not take any responsibility for darnage caused by third-party chargers. 

;\j; How to discharge your Intelligent Flight Battery: 

Slow : Place the Intelligent Flight Battery into the Phantorn 3 Professional's Battery Cornpartrnent 

and turn it on. Leave it on until there is less than 8% of power left, or until the battery can no 

longer be turned on. Launch the OJI Pilot app to check battery levels. 

Rapid : Fly the Phantorn 3 Professional outdoors until there is less than 8% of power left, or until 

the battery can no longer be turned on. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 21 
Remote Controller 

This section describes the features 

of the remote controller and includes 

instructions for controlling the aircraft 

and the camera. 

22 © 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved. 
Remote Controller 

The Phantom 3 Professional remote controller is a multi-function wireless communication device that 

integrates the video downlink system and aircraft remote control system. The video downlink and aircraft 

remote control system operate at 2.4 GHz. The remote controller features a number of camera control 

functions, such as taking and previewing photos and videos, as well as controlling gimbal motion. 

The remote controller is powered by a 2S rechargeable battery. The battery level is displayed via LED 

indicators on the front panel of the remote controller. 

!XI • Compliance Version: The remote controller is compliant with both CE and FCC regulations. 

• Operating Mode: Control can be set to Mode 1 or Mode 2, or to a custom mode. 

• Mode 1: The right stick serves as the throttle. 

• Mode 2: The left stick serves as the throttle. 

& To prevent transmission interference, do not operate more than three aircrafts in the same area. 

Turning the Remote Controller On and Off 

The Phantom 3 Professional remote controller is powered by a 2S rechargeable battery that has a 

capacity of 6000 mAh. The battery level is indicated via the Battery Level LEOs on the front panel. Follow 

the steps below to turn on your remote controller: 

1. When the remote controller is turned off, press the Power Button once. The Battery Level LEOs will 

display the current battery level. 

2. Press and hold the Power Button to turn on the remote controller. 

3. The remote controller will beep when it is turned on. The Status LED will rapidly blink green, indicating 

that the remote controller is linking to the aircraft. The Status LEOs will glow solid green when linking is 

complete. 

4. Repeat Step 2 to turn off the remote controller. 

Charging the Remote Controller 

Charge the remote controller using the included charger. Refer to the figure on next page below for more 

details. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 23 

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Power Button 

Controlling the Camera 

Shoot videos/pictures, view recorded images, and adjust camera settings via the Shutter Button, Camera 

Settings Dial, Playback Button, and Video Recording Button on the remote controller. 

[1] Camera Settings Dial 

Turn the dial to adjust camera settings such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture without letting go of 

the remote controller. Move the dial to left or right to scroll through pictures and videos in playback 

mode. Press down on the dial to toggle between these settings. 

[2] Playback Button 

Press to view images and videos that have already been captured. 

[3] Shutter Button 

Press to take a photo. If burst mode is activated, multiple photos will be taken with a single press. 

[4] Video Receding Button 

Press once to start recording video, then press again to stop recording. 

[5] Gimbal Dial 

Use this dial to control the tilt of the gimbal. 

Controlling Aircraft 

This section explains how to control the orientation of the aircraft through the remote controller. The 

Remote Control is set to Mode 2 by default. 

24 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

El:J Stick Neutral/Mid-Point: Control sticks are in the center position. 

Moving the Control Stick: The control stick is pushed away from the center position. 

Remote COntroller 

(Mode2) 

Aircraft. 

Indicates Nose Direction) Remarks: 

Moving the left stick up and down changes the 

aircraft's elevation. 

Push the stick up to ascend and down to descend. 

When both sticks are centered, the Phantom 3 

Professional will hover in place. 

The more the stick is pushed away from the center 

position, the faster the Phantom 3 Professional will 

change elevation. Always push the stick gently 

to prevent sudden and unexpected elevation 

changes. 

Moving the left stick to the left or right controls the 

rudder and rotation of the aircraft. 

Push the sick left to rotate the aircraft counterclockwise, push the stick right to rotate the aircraft 

clockwise. If the stick is centered, the Phantom 3 

Professional will maintain its current orientation. 

The more the stick is pushed away from the center 

position, the faster the Phantom 3 Professional will 

rotate. 

Moving the right stick up and down changes the 

aircraft's forward and backward pitch. 

Push the stick up to fly forward and down to fly 

backward. Phantom 3 Professional will hover in 

place if the stick is centered. 

Push the stick further away from the center position for 

a larger pitch angle (maximum 30°) and faster flight. 

Moving the right stick control left and right changes 

the aircraft's left and right pitch. 

Push left to fly left and right to fly right. The 

Phantom 3 Professional will hover in place if the 

stick is centered. 

Gimbal Dial: Turn the dial to the right, and the 

camera will shift to point upwards. Turn the 

dial to the left, and the camera will shift to point 

downwards. The camera will remain in its current 

position when dial is static. 

© 2015 OJ I. ~,II R1ghts Reserved 25 

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Adjusting Controller Sticks 

Hold and twist the controller sticks clockwise or counter clockwise to adjust 

the length of the controller sticks. A proper length of controller sticks can 

improve the controlling accuracy. 

Flight Mode Switch 

Toggle the switch to select the desired flight mode. 

You may choose between; P-mode, F-mode and Amode. 

Posi,tion2 ~ 

Position 3 cf:b P-mode 

Position I &:> 

Position2~ 

Position 3 cf:b 

~ P-mode (Positioning): P-mode works best when the GPS signal is strong. There are three different 

versions of P-mode, which will be automatically selected by the Phantom 3 Professional depending on 

GPS signal strength and the Vision Positioning sensors: 

P-GPS: GPS and Vision Positioning both are available; the aircraft is using GPS for positioning. 

P-OPTI: Vision Positioning is available but a sufficient GPS signal is not available. Aircraft is using 

only Vision Positioning for position holding. 

P-ATTI: Neither GPS nor Vision Positioning is available, the aircraft is using only its barometer for 

positioning, so only altitude is maintained. 

A-mode (Attitude): GPS and Vision Positioning System are not used for stabilization. The aircraft uses 

only its barometer to stabilize. The aircraft can automatically return to the Home Point if remote controller 

signal is lost and the Home Point was recorded successfully. 

F-mode (Function): Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) is activated in this mode. For more information 

about IOC, refer to the IOC section in the Appendix. 

By default, the Flight Mode Switch is locked toP-mode. To unlock other flight modes, launch the OJI Pilot 

app, enter the "Camera" page, and tap "Mode", then activate "Multiple Flight Mode". 

RTH Button 

Press and hold the RTH button to start the Return-to-Home (RTH) procedure. The LED ring around the RTH 

Button will blink white to indicate that the aircraft is entering RTH mode. The aircraft will then return to the 

last recorded Home Point. Press this button again to cancel the RTH procedure and regain control of the 

aircraft. 

26 © 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Connecting Your Mobile Device 

Tilt the mobile device holder to the desired position. Press the button on the side of the mobile device holder 

to release the clamp, and then place your mobile device into the cradle. Adjust the clamp down to secure the 

mobile device. To connect your mobile device to the remote controller using a USB cable, plug one end of 

the cable into your mobile device and the other end into the USB port on the back of the remote controller. 

Optimal Transmission Range 

The transmission signal between the aircraft and the remote controller is most reliable within the area that 

is depicted in the image below: 

Optimal Transmission Range 

~ i6 

strong weak 

Ensure that the aircraft is flying within the optimal transmission zone. To achieve the best transmission 

performance, maintain the appropriate relationship between the operator and the aircraft. 

The Status LED reflects the strength of the connection between the remote controller and the aircraft. The 

RTH LED indicates the Return-to-Home status of the aircraft. The table below contains more information 

about these indicators. 

~®~ 

(@) ~~----1-1----- RTH LED 

Status LED -----"'""";;:;;;;;;;;;;::,;,:,:,:,==""' 

© 2015 DJl. All Rights Reserved. 27 

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·!/!!:-Solid Red I' Chime 

:(W~ Solid Green I' Cilim.e 

:@-······Slow Blinking Red D-0-D····· 

'i;!P.:- Solid White 

~: ······ Blinking White 

'i;!P.: ...... Blinking White 

None 

!Chime 

D··· 

DO·· 

The remote controller is disconnected from the aircraft 

The rernote contrgller is connected to the aircraft, 

Remote controller error. 

HDdownlink is disrwpted: 

Aircraft is retwrning horne. 

Sending Retwrn-to-Horne command to the aircraft. 

Retwrn-to-Horne procedwre in progress. 

6 The Remote Statws Indicator will blink red and SO!Jnd an alert, when the battery level is critically low. 

The remote controller is linked to yowr aircraft before delivery. Linking is only reqwired when wsing a new 

remote controller for the first time. Follow these steps to link a new remote controller: 

1. Twrn on the remote controller and connect to the mobile device. Lawnch the OJI Pilot app. 

2. Twrn on the Intelligent Flight Battery. 

3. Enter "Camera" and tap on !Jl' ,1111 and then tap "Linking RC" button as shown below. 

< RC Control Setting X 

RC Calibration > 

Stick Mode > 

Default stick mode is Mode 2, changing stick modes alters the way the aircraft is controlled. 

Do not change unless familiar with your new mode. 

Ci I._ __ N_o_t_D_e_fin_e_d __ __; C21 '---'-'N"-ot:..:D:....e_fi_ne_d __ _; 

28 © 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved 

You can customize the C1 and C2 buttons on the back 

of the AC. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

4. The remote controller is ready to link. The Remote Controller Status Indicator blinks blue and a beep is 

emitted. 

< RC Control Setting X 

RC Calibration 

Stick Mode 

Default stick mode isM 

Do not change unless f 

Ci lc_ __ N_o_t D---1 

> 

> 

Searching for aircraft frequency, 

timeout in 54 seconds he aircraft is controlled. 

Press the linking button on the aircraft 

to link this remote controller 

Cancel Defined I 

You can customize the C1 and C2 buttons on the back 

of the RC. 

5. Locate the linking button on the side of the aircraft, as shown in the figure below. Press the link button 

to start linking. The Remote Controller Status Indicator LED will display a solid green once the remote 

controller is successfully linked to the aircraft. 

Link Button 

Lb. • The remote controller will un-link itself from an aircraft if a new remote controller is linked to the 

same aircraft. 

The remote controller is compliant with both CE and FCC requirements. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 29 

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Camera and Gimbal 

This section provides the technical 

specifications of the camera and 

explains the gimbal's operation modes. 

30 © 2015 OJJ. All Rights Reserved. 
Camera and Gimbal 

The on-board camera uses the 1/2.3 inch CMOS sensor to capture video (up to 4096x2160p at 24fps or 

4K at up to 30fps with the Phantom 3 Professional) and 12 megapixel stills. You may choose to record 

the video in either MOV or MP4 format. Available picture shooting modes include burst, continuous, and 

time-lapse mode. A live preview of what the camera sees can be monitored on the connected mobile 

device via the OJI Pilot app. 

Camera Micro-SO Card Slot 

To store your photos and videos, insert the Micro-SO card into the slot, as shown below, before 

turning on the Phantom 3 Professional. The Phantom 3 Professional comes with a 16GB Micro-SO 

card and supports Micro-SO cards up to 64 GB. A U HS-1 Micro-SO card is recommended due to 

their fast read and write speeds allowing you to save high-resolution video data. Gl 

0 Do not remove the Micro-SO card frorn the Phantom 3 Professional when it is turned on. 

Camera Data Port 

Turn on the Phantom 3 Professional and connect a USB cable to the Camera Data Port to download 

photos and videos to your computer. 

6 The aircraft rnust be turned on before attempting to access the files on the Micro-SO card. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 31 

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Camera Operation 

Use the Shutter and Video Recording buttons on the remote controller to shoot the images or videos 

through the DJI Pilot app. For more information about how to use these buttons, refer to "Controlling the 

Camera Page 24". 

Camera LED Indicator 

Camera LED Indicator lights up after the flight battery is powered on. It provides information on the 

working status of the camera. 

:Jf$!.- Green Fast Blink (0.2s off, 0.1 son ) 

-~Green Blink Once (0.5s off, 0.4s on r 

:~·Green Blink3 Times (0.3s off, O.ls on) ,,. -

:®:slow Red Blink (1.6s on, 0.8s off) 

-:®:Fast Red Blink (0.5s off, 0.2s on ) 

:W):c®: Double Red Blink (b.ls on; O.ls dff, O.ls on, O.ls off) 

'W):-Solid Red 

:Jt$t :~Green and Red Blink (0.8s green on, 0.8s red on) 

Gimbal Profile 

System is warming up. 

Taking a single picture.· 

Taking 3 or 5 photos per shot. 

Recording. 

SO card error. 

Overheated Camera 

System error. 

Firmware Upgrading 

The 3-axis gimbal provides a steady platform for the attached camera, allowing you to capture clear, 

stable images and video. The gimbal can tilt the camera within a 120° range. 

Use the gimbal dial on the remote controller to control the tilt movement of the camera. 

32 © 2015 DJL All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Gimbal Operation Modes 

Two gimbal operation modes are available. Switch between the different operation modes on the camera 

settings page of the DJI Pilot app. Note that your mobile device must be connected to the remote 

controller for changes to take effect. Refer to the table below for details: 

Follow Mode 

FPV Mode 

The angle between gimbal's orientation and aircraft's nose remains 

constant at all times. 

The gimbal will synchronize with the movement of the aircraft to provide a 

first-person perspective flying experience. 

&, • A gimbal motor error may occur in these situations: (I) the aircraft is placed on uneven ground 

or the gimbal's motion is obstructed (2) the gimbal has been subjected to an excessive 

external force, such as a collision. Please take off from flat, open ground and protect the gimbal 

at all times. 

• Flying in heavy fog or clouds may make the gimbal wet, leading to temporary failure. The 

gimbal will recover full functionality after it dries. 

Anti-Drop Kit 

The anti-drop kit helps keep the gimbal and camera connected to the aircraft. Two pins have been 

mounted prior to shipping. If new or additional pins are required, see the diagram below. Press Part 

G) through the hole of the vibration absorber and into the center hole of Part®, then lock them together 

as shown ® . Mounting the anti-drop kit pins diagonally from each other is recommended. 

© 2015 DJI. All R1ghts Reserved. 33 
DJI Pilot App 

This section introduces the four main 

functions of the OJI Pilot app. 

34 © 2015 OJ I. All Rights Reserved. 
DJI Pilot App 

The DJI Pilot app is a mobile application designed specifically for the Phantom 3 Professional. Use this 

app to control the gimbal, camera, and other aircraft functions. The app also features Map, Academy, 

and User Center, which are used for configuring your aircraft and sharing your photos and videos with 

others. It is recommended that you use a tablet for the best experience. 

United States 

Mountain View 

DIRECTOR 

The Camera page contains a live HD video feed from the Phantom 3 Professional's camera. You can also 

configure various camera parameters from the Camera page. 

[18) 

[17) 

[16) 

[15) 

[14) 

[13) 

[12) [11) 

[9] 

[10) 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 35 

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[1] Flight Mode 

8: The text next to this icon indicates the current flight mode. 

Tap to configure the MC (Main Controller) Settings. These settings allow you to modify flight limits and 

set the gain values. 

:\)' The aircraft is set to "Beginner Mode" by default. The aircraft cannot fly 30 meters (98 feet) higher 

and beyond the recorded Home Point under beginner mode. Disable this mode in the MODE 

setting page. 

[2] GPS Signal Strength 

~,ull: This icon shows the current strength of GPS signals. Green bars indicate adequate GPS 

strength. 

[3] IOC Settings 

~ CL: This icon displays the IOC setting when the aircraft has entered F-mode. Tap to view the IOC 

settings.menu and select the desired IOC setting. 

[4] System Status 

llllllil: This icon indicates the current aircraft system status and GPS signal strength. 

[5] Battery Level Indicator 

....,....___., : The battery level indicator provides a dynamic display of the battery level. The colored 

zones on the battery level indicator represent the power levels needed to carry out different functions. 

[6] Remote Controller Signal 

iii' dill: This icon shows the strength of remote controller's signal. 

[7] HD Video Link Signal Strength 

!]Q]",•III: This icon shows the strength of the HD video downlink connection between the aircraft and 

the remote controller. 

[8] Battery Level 

lrt 1 00%: This icon shows the current battery level. 

Tap to view the battery information menu, set the various battery warning thresholds, and view the 

battery warning history. 

[9] General Settings 

:: : Tap this icon to view the General Settings page. From this page, you can set flight parameters, 

reset the camera, enable the quick view feature, adjust the gimbal roll value, and toggle the flight 

route display. 

[1 0] Camera Operation Bar 

Shutter and Recording Settings 

l!<t :Tap to enter various camera value settings, including color space for the recording, resolution of 

the videos, image size and so on. 

36 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 
Phantom 3 Professional User Jvlanual 

Shutter 

e: Tap this button to take a single photo. Press and hold this button to select single shot, triple shot 

or time-lapsed shooting modes. 

Record 

• : Tap once to start recording video, then tap again to stop recording. You can also press the 

Video Recording Button on the remote controller, which has the same functionality. 

Playback 

[E] : Tap to enter the playback page. You can preview photos and videos as soon as they are 

captured. 

Camera Settings 

~~:Tap to set ISO, shutter and auto exposure values of the camera. 

[11] Vision Positioning 

~ :This icon shows the distance between the surface and the Vision Positioning System's sensors. 

[12] Flight Telemetry 

.H 39M D 1039M VS.8.3M/S HS·24.2M/S 

The Vision Positioning Status icon is highlighted when the Vision Positioning is in operation. 

Flight attitude is indicated by the flight attitude icon. 

(1) The red arrow shows which direction the aircraft is facing. 

(2) Light blue and dark blue areas indicate pitch. 

(3) The angle of the boundary between the light blue and dark blue areas indicates the roll angle. 

[13] Map 

Display the flight path of the current flight. Tap to switch from the Camera GUI to the Map GUI. 

[14] Dynamic Home Point 

~ : Press this button to enable the dynamic home point feature, the home point then will be reset to 

position of the mobile device. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 37 

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[15] Return to Home (RTH) 

&; : Initiate RTH home procedure. Tap to have the aircraft return to the last recorded home point. 

[16] Auto Takeoff/Landing 

-t I :f.: :Tap to initiate auto takeoff or landing. 

[17] Livestream 

@: Livestrearn icon indicates the current video feed is broadcasting live on YouTube. Be sure the 

mobile data service is available on the mobile device. 

[18] Back 

~ :Tap to return to the main GUI. 

Director is an automatic video editor built into the DJI Pilot app. After recording several video clips, simply 

tap "Director" from the app's horne screen. You can then select a template and a specified number of 

clips, which are automatically combined to create a short film that can be shared immediately. 

Tap "Store" to visit the official DJI Online Store to see the latest information about DJI products and easily 

buy new products. 

Sync pictures and videos to your mobile device, view flight logs, and check your DJI account status in 

"Discovery". Use your registered DJI account to login to "Discovery". 

38 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 
Flight 

This section describes safe flight 

practices and flight restrictions. 

© 2015 DJL All Rights Reserved 39 
Flight 

Once pre-flight preparation is complete, it is recommended that you use the flight simulator in the DJI Pilot 

app to hone your flight skills and practice flying safely. Ensure that all flights are carried out in an open 

area. 

1. Do not use the aircraft in severe weather conditions. These include wind speeds exceeding 10 m/s , 

snow, rain and fog. 

2. Only fly in open areas. Tall structures and large metal structures may affect the accuracy of the onboard compass and GPS system. 

3. Avoid obstacles, crowds, high voltage power lines, trees, and bodies of water. 

4. Minimize interference by avoiding areas with high levels of electromagnetism, including base stations 

and radio transmission towers. 

5. Aircraft and battery performance is subject to environmental factors such as air density and 

temperature. Be very careful when flying at altitudes greater than 19, 685 feet (6000 meters) above sea 

:::!:! level, as the performance of the battery and aircraft may be affected. 

~ 6. The Phantom 3 Professional cannot operate within the polar areas. 

All unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators should abide by all regulations set forth by government and 

regulatory agencies including the ICAO and the FAA. For safety reasons, flights are limited by default, 

which helps users operate this product safely and legally. Flight limitations include height limits, distance 

limits, and No-Fly Zones. 

When operating in P-rnode, height limits, distance limits, and No-Fly Zones function concurrently to 

manage flight safety. In A-mode, only height limits are in effect, which by default prevent the aircraft 

altitude from exceeding 1640 feet (500 m). 

Maximum flight altitude & Radius Limits 

Maximum flight altitude and radius limits may be changed in the OJI Pilot app. Be aware that the 

maximum flight altitude cannot exceed 1640 feet (500 meters). In accordance with these settings, your 

Phantom 3 Professional will fly in a restricted cylinder, as shown below: 

Maximum Flight Altitude 

40 © 2015 OJ! All Rights Reserved. 

Max Radius 

Home Point 

-1.1::-----+- Height of aircraft 

when turned on 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Flight Limits DJI Pilotapp 

Maxirri6~P"iig~(. ·Ai'rcraft's altitude canriof· .· · 

Altitude · ex~~ed the specHiJdvaiue. 

• ..W~rning' H(liQ~t llmiHeached.· 

Max Radius 

Maximum 

flight 

Altitude 

Max Radius 

Flight distance must be within 

the max radius. 

Warning: Distance 

limit reached. 

Flight Limits 

Height is restricted to 400 

f~et. (120rD) and under. 

No limits 

DJJ Pilot app 

warning: Height limit 

reached. 

Aircraft Status Indicator 

Rapid red flashing ifi.f 

······when close to the 

max radius limit. 

Aircraft Status Indicator 

. J\jone. 

• If you fly out of the limit, you can still control the Phantom 3, but cannot fly it any father. If the 

& Phantom 3 flies out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode, it will fly back within 

range automatically. 

• If the Phantom 3 flies out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode, it will fly back 

within range automatically. 

No-Fly Zones 

All No-Fly Zones are listed on the DJI official website at http://flysafe.dji.com/no-fly. No-Fly Zones are 

divided into Airports and Restricted Areas. Airports include major airports and flying fields where manned 

aircraft operate at low altitudes. Restricted Areas include border lines between countries or sensitive 

institute. The details of the No-Fly Zones are explained as follow: 

Airport 

(1) Airport No-Fly Zone are comprised of Take-off Restricted zones and Restricted Altitude Zones. Each 

zone features circles of various sizes. 

(2) R1 miles (value of the R1 depends on the size and shape of the airport) around the airport is a Takeoff restricted zone, inside of which take off is prevented. 

(3) From R1 mile to R1 + 1 mile around the airport the flight altitude is limited to a 15 degree inclination. 

Starting at 65 feet (20 meters) from the edge of airport and radiating outward. The flight altitude is 

limited to 1640 feet (500 meters) at R1+ 1 mile 

(4) When the aircraft enters within 320 feet (100 meters) of No-Fly Zones, a warning message will appear 

on the DJI Pilot app. 

© 2015 DJI. All R1ghts Reserved 41 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

L J-1mile--I+-R1 -~ 

~------ R2 -----. 

Restricted Area 

(1) Restricted Areas does not have flight altitude restrictions. 

No-fly zone Restricted-altitude flight zone Warning zone 

(2) R miles around the designated restriction area is a Take-off Restricted area. Aircraft cannot take off 

within this zone. The value of R varies based on the definition of the restricted areas. 

(3) A "warning zone" has been set around the Restricted Area. When the aircraft approaches within 0.062 

miles (100m) of this zone, a warning message will appear on the DJI Pilot app, 

No-fly zone Warning zone Free zone 

42 © 2015 OJI All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Aircraft 

Zone Restriction DJI Pilot App Prompt Status 

Indicator 

Motors will not start. Warning: You are in a No-fly 

zone. Take off prohibited. 

No-fly Zone If the aircraft enters the 

• restricted area in A-mode, but is Warning: You are in a no-fly zone. switched to P-mode, the aircraft 

will automatically descend, land, Automatic landing has begun. 

and stop its motors. 

R1: Warning: You are in a :(/!!:······ 

If the aircraft enters the restricted restricted zone. Descending to Red flashing 

Restricted- area in A-mode, but is switched safe altitude. 

altitude flight to P-mode, it will descend to an R2: Warning: You are in a 

zone restricted zone. Maximum flight appropriate altitude and hover altitude is restricted to between 15 feet below the altitude limit. 

20m and 500m. Fly cautiously. 

Warning zone No flight restriction applies, but Warning: You are approaching a 

there will be a warning . restricted zone, Fly cautiously. 

Free zone No restrictions. None. None. 

EI:J Semi-automatic descent: All stick commands are available except the throttle stick command 

during the descent and landing process. Motors will stop automatically after landing. 

& · When flying in a safety zone, the aircraft's status indicator will blink red rapidly and continue 

for 3 seconds, then switch to indicate current flying status and continue for 5 seconds at which 

point it will switch back to blinking red. 

• For safety reasons, please do not fly close to airports, highways, railway stations, railway lines, 

city centers, or other sensitive areas. Fly the aircraft only within your line of sight. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 43 

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Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

1. Remote controller, Intelligent Flight Battery, and mobile device are fully charged. 

2. Propellers are mounted correctly and firmly. 

3. Micro-SO card has been inserted, if necessary. 

4. Gimbal is functioning normally. 

5. Motors can start and are functioning normally. 

6. The DJI Pilot app is successfully connected to the aircraft. 

IMPORTANT: Always calibrate the compass in every new flight location. The compass is very sensitive 

to electromagnetic interference, which can produce abnormal compass data and lead to poor flight 

performance or flight failure. Regular calibration is required for optimal performance. 

0 • Do not calibrate your compass where there is any possibility of strong magnetic interference. 

Sources of potential interference include magnetite, parking structures, and subterranean 

metal structures 

• Do not carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration such as keys or cellular 

phones. 

• Do not calibrate in direct proximity to large metal objects. 

• DO NOT calibrate indoors. 

Calibration Procedures 

Choose an open area to carry out the following procedures. 

1. Ensure that the compass is calibrated. If you did not calibrate the compass as part of your pre-flight 

preparations, or if you have moved to a new location since the last calibration, tap the Aircraft Status 

Bar in the app and select "Calibrate", then follow the on-screen instructions. 

2. Hold the aircraft horizontally and rotate 360 degrees. The Aircraft Status Indicators will display a solid 

green light. 

44 © 2015 DJL All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

3. Hold the aircraft vertically, with nose pointing downward, and rotate it 360 degrees around the center 

axis. Recalibrate the compass if the Aircraft Status Indicator glows solid red. 

& If the Aircraft Status Indicator blinks red and yellow after the calibration procedure, move your 

aircraft to a different location and try again. 

:<J: Calibrate the compass before each flight. Launch the DJI Pilot app and follow the on-screen 

instructions to calibrate the compass. DO NOT calibrate the compass near metal objects such 

as a metal bridge, cars, scaffolding. 

When to Recalibrate 

1.When compass data is abnormal and the Aircraft Status Indicator is blinking green and yellow. 

2.When flying in a new location or in a location that is different from the most recent flight. 

3.When the mechanical or physical structure of the Phantom 3 Professional has been changed. 

4.When severe drifting occurs in flight, i.e. Phantom 3 Professional does not fly in straight line. 

Auto Takeoff 

Use auto takeoff only if the Aircraft Status Indicators are blinking green. Follow the steps below to use the 

auto takeoff feature: 

1. Launch the DJI Pilot app, and enter "Camera" page. 

2. Ensure the aircraft is in P- mode. 

3. Complete all steps on the pre-flight checklist. 

4. Tap"±", and confirm that conditions are safe for flight. Slide the icon to confirm and takeoff. 

5. Aircraft takes off and hovers at (1.2 meters) above ground. 

& Aircraft Status Indicator blinks rapidly when it is using the Vision Position System for stabilization. 

The aircraft will automatically hover below 3 meters. It is recommended to wait until there is 

sufficient GPS lock before using the Auto Take-off feature. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 45 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Auto-Landing 

Use auto-landing only if the Aircraft Status Indicators are blinking green. Follow the steps below to use the 

auto-landing feature: 

1. Ensure the aircraft is in P- mode. 

2. Check the landing area condition before tapping "!.", to begin landing. Then follow the on-screen 

instructions. 

Starting the Motors 

A Combination Stick Command (CSC) is used to start the motors. Push both sticks to the bottom 

inner or outer corners to start the motors. Once the motors have started spinning, release both sticks 

simultaneously. 

Stopping the Motors 

There are two methods to stop the motors. 

Method 1: When Phantom 3 Professional has landed, push the throttle down<D, then conduct the same 

CSC that was used to start the motors, as described above®. Motors will stop immediately. Release both 

sticks once motors stop. 

Method 2: When the aircraft has landed, push and hold the throttle down. The motors will stop after three 

seconds. 

OR 

Method 1 Method 2 

&, Do not perform a CSC when the aircraft is in midair, otherwise the motors will suddently stop. 

Takeoff/Landing Procedures 

1. Place the aircraft in an open, flat area with the battery level indicators facing towards you. 

2. Turn on the remote controller and your mobile device, then turn on the Intelligent Flight Battery. 

3. Launch the DJI Pilot app and enter the Camera page. 

4. Wait until the Aircraft Indicators blink green. This means the Home Point is recorded and it is now safe 

to fly. If they flash yellow, the Home Point has not been recorded. 

5. Push the throttle up slowly to take off or use Auto Takeoff. 

6. Shoot photos and videos using the DJI Pilot app. 

7. To land, hover over a level surface and gently pull down on the throttle to descend. 

8. After landing, execute the CSC command or hold the throttle at its lowest position until the motors stop. 

9. Turn off the Intelligent Flight Battery first, then the Remote Controller. 

46 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 
Phantom 3 Professional User Jvlanual 

& • When the Aircraft Status Indicators blink yellow rapidly during flight, the aircraft has entered Failsafe 

mode. 

• A low battery level warning is indicated by the Aircraft Status Indicators blinking red slowly or 

rapidly during flight. 

• Watch our video tutorials for more flight information. 

Video Suggestions and Tips 

1. Go through the full pre-flight checklist before each flight. 

2. Select the desired gimbal operation mode in the OJI Pilot app. 

3. Only shoot video when flying in P-mode. 

4. Always fly in good weather and avoid flying in rain or heavy wind. 

5. Choose the camera settings that suit your needs. Settings include photo format and exposure compensation. 

6. Perform flight tests to establish flight routes and preview scenes. 

7. Push the control sticks gently to keep the aircraft's movement smooth and stable. 

© 2015 DJI. All R1ghts Reserved. 4 7 
FAQ 

48 © 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved. 
Troubleshooting (FAQ) 

What is the difference between the Phantom 3 Professional and the Phantom 3 Advanced? 

The biggest difference between the Phantom 3 Professional and the Phantom 3 Advanced is in the 

camera. The Phantom 3 Professional is capable of shooting spectacular 4K video at up to 30 frames per 

second, and the Phantom 3 Advanced is capable of shooting at resolutions up to 1080p60. Both models 

shoot 12 megapixel photos. 

The other main difference is the Intelligent Flight Battery charger. The Phantom 3 Advanced comes with a 

57-watt charging unit and the Phantom 3 Professional comes with a 100-watt charger, the latter of which 

allows for shorter charging times. 

Can I remove the camera and attach my own? 

No. The cameras that come with both models are permanently attached. Attempting to remove, replace, or 

modify the camera may damage the product and will void your warranty. 

Can I charge my Remote Controller and Intelligent Flight Battery at the same time? 

While the Remote Controller charger and Intelligent Flight Batfery charger have been integrated into one 

unit for your convenience, it is recommended that you only charge one item at a time. We recommend that j; 

you never charge both items using the same charger at the same time. 0 

What are the buttons on the back of my Remote Controller for? 

The two buttons on the back of the Remote Controller can be customized and assigned to function as you 

choose through the DJI Pilot app. Refer to the manual for more information. 

How far can I fly my Phantom 3? 

The signal transmission distance will vary depending on environmental conditions, but the Phantom 3 

series can reach distances of up to 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) away from the pilot. 

What app should I use with my Phantom 3? 

The Phantom 3 is compatible with the DJI Pilot app for iOS and Android, which is already used with the DJI 

Inspire. The app will detect which aircraft is connected and automatically adjust accordingly. 

Which mobile devices are compatible with the app? 

The DJI Pilot app is only compatible with devices running iOS 8.0 or later or Android v4.1.2 or later. 

The following devices are recommended: 

iOS: iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad Air Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad mini 2, iPad mini 2 Wi-Fi 

+ Cellular, iPad Air 2, iPad Air 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad mini 3, and iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular. This app is 

optimized for iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus 

Android: Samsung S5, Note 3, Sony Z3 EXPERIA, Google Nexus 7 II, Google Nexus 9, Mi 3, Nubia Z7 mini 

Support for additional Android devices will become available as testing and development continues. 

© 2015 OJ I. All R1ghts Reserved 49 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

How do I use the Director automatic video editor? 

Director is an automatic video editor built into the DJI Pilot app. After recording several video clips, simply 

tap "Director" from the app's home screen. You can then select a template and a specified number of 

clips, which are automatically combined to create a short film that can be shared immediately. 

How do I change the control mode of my Phantom 3? 

By default, the Remote Controller is set to Mode 2. This means that the right control stick controls the 

movement of the aircraft and the left control stick controls the throttle and orientation of the aircraft. These 

controls can be changed to Mode 1 or set to a customized configuration in the DJI Pilot app. This is only 

recommended for advanced users. 

Can I use a Phantom 2 Remote Controller with the Phantom 3? 

No. The Phantom 2 Remote Controller operates on a different frequency. The Phantom 2 Remote Controller 

operates at 5.8 GHz and the new Phantom 3 Remote Controller operates at 2.4 GHz. 

Can I use a Phantom 2 Intelligent Flight Battery with the Phantom 3? 

No. The Phantom 3 uses a newly designed Intelligent Flight Battery with greater power. The Phantom 3 has 

a 4 cell battery with a capacity of 4480 mAh and a voltage of 15.2 V. 

My Phantom 3 does not turn off right away, is something wrong? 

This is normal. After you attempt to power off the Intelligent Flight Battery, it may remain on for a few 

seconds as any video data is saved to the Micro SD card. This helps prevent your data from being lost or 

corrupted. 

Do I have to buy the Remote Controller separately? 

No, there is no need to buy a separate Remote Controller. Your Phantom 3 comes with a Remote Controller 

that is already linked to the aircraft. 

Does my Phantom 3 support dual Remote Controllers? 

No. The included Remote Controller can be used to control both the aircraft and the gimbal tilt at the same 

time. 

What does the "P, A, F" switch on the Remote Controller do? 

This switch, called the Flight Mode Switch, allows you to toggle different flight modes: 

P-mode, or Positioning mode, indicates that both GPS and the Vision Positioning System are active and 

your Phantom 3 will attempt to stabilize using both. 

In A-mode, or Attitude mode, the aircraft does not use GPS or the Vision Positioning System. Only the 

barometer is used for stabilization. The aircraft can still return to the Home Point as long as a sufficient GPS 

signal is available. 

F-mode, or Function mode, activates Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) functionality. Refer to the IOC 

section in the Appendix of the User Manual. 

By default, only P-mode may be used. Refer to your user manual for instructions on unlocking the other 

modes. 

50 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

What is the Phantom 3 flight time? 

Flight times will vary depending on environmental conditions and usage patterns, but the Intelligent Flight 

Battery is designed to provide up to 23 minutes of uninterrupted flight time when fully charged. 

How can I restore a video file if the power is turned off during recording? 

Do not remove the Micro-SO card from the camera. If it has been removed, place it back in the camera. 

Turn the Phantom 3 on and wait approximately 30 seconds as the video file is restored. 

How can I ensure that my pictures and videos will be synchronized to my iOS album? 

You may need to adjust the settings of your mobile device. Open the Settings menu, select the Privacy 

tab, select the Photos tab, and then toggle the switch next to the OJI Pilot app icon. If the Pilot app has not 

been granted access to your albums, the photos and videos cannot be synchronized. 

What should I do to land my Phantom 3 smoothly as possible? 

Hover the aircraft over a flat, level surface. Slowly pull the throttle stick down until the aircraft touches the 

ground. 

Why is the discharge time of the battery not zero, even though I have never used it? 

Every battery is tested prior to being packaged and shipped. This affects the discharge time of a new 

battery and is the reason that the discharge time is not zero. The battery is safe to use. 

Can the mobile device holder be used on the Phantom 2 series Remote Controller? 

No, it cannot. 

How to safely operate the aircraft when encountering compass error? 

A compass error may occur when the aircraft is flying close to strong electric magnetic sources (e.g. 

power transmission lines). Aircraft Status Indicators blink red and yellow rapidly when a compass error 

occurs and the OJI Pilot app will display one of the following messages: 

• Compass error, calibration required 

This warning message indicates the aircraft is receiving abnormal compass readings. It is recommended 

to power off the aircraft and re-calibrate the compass at a different location and then resume the flight. 

• Compass error, exit P-GPS Mode 

This warning message indicates that the aircraft is drifting severely. Bring the aircraft to a higher altitude 

to gain enough GPS satellite locks when this warning message is prompted. The flight controller will 

automatically adjust the orientation of the aircraft in the midair to mitigate the drifts. The aircraft will switch 

back to P-GPS mode when the automatic adjustment is completed. 

How to troubleshoot aircraft initialization error? 

If you observe the following symptoms, it indicates the aircraft has failed to initialized: 

• The aircraft status indicator display flashing red, yellow and green. Even the aircraft is stationed on the 

flat surface. 

• The System Status Bar in the app prompts "Initialization Error". 

• No resistance drive if felt on the gimbal. 

© 2015 DJI. All R1ghts Reserved 51 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Various factors contribute to the aircraft initialization error, try resolve the issue by following the suggestions 

listed below: 

• Sensor performance degraded. This may be due to the excessive bias detected from the IMU or the 

compass reading is interfered. Try restarting and calibrating the IMU and compass to resolve this issue. 

• Sensor is defective. If the sensors remains unchanged at all time and the problem persist even when the 

aircraft is restarted, it indicates the sensor is not working normally. Users should return the aircraft to DJI 

for repairing. 

• Minor vibration is detected during aircraft initialization. Put the aircraft on the flat surface, power on the 

aircraft and ensure the aircraft is stationed for more than 5 seconds to resolve the issue. 

• Serious vibration is detected during aircraft initialization. This instance generally occurs when the aircraft 

is being initialization on the violent moving surface, for instance, ships that are on the rough sea. Do not 

attempt to power on the aircraft in this scenario. 

52 © 2015 OJ! All Rights Reserved 
Appendix 

© 2015 OJ I. All Rights Reserved 53 
Appendix 

Weight (Battery & 

Propellers Included) 

M,aJl. AscentSpeed 

Max. Descent Speed 

Max, Speed 

Max. Flight Altitude 

Max .. Flight Time 

Operating Temperature 

Velocity Range 

Altitude Range 

Operating Range 

1280 g 

5rtl/s 

3 m/s 

16 rn/s (A{fl mode; no wind) 

6000m 

A[:>proxi~~iely 23 minutes 

ooc to 40°C 

< 8 m/s (2 m above ground) 

30 .cm'300 em 

30 cm-300 em 

Sensor Sony EXMOR 1/2.3" Effectivepixels:12.4 M (total pixels: 12.76 M) 

Lens FOV 94° 20mm(35mm format equivalent) f/2.8 

ISO RanQe 100-3200~video) 100-1600(photo) 

Electronic Shutter Speed 8s -1/8000s 

lniaqe Max. Size 4000 x 3000 

Single shot 

Still Photography Modes 

, Supported SO Card.Typ~s 

Video Recording Modes 

.Max. ~itraie Of Video 

Storage 

Supported File Formats 

Of)eraling Temperature 

R!J,nge 

54 © 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved. 

Burst shooting: 3/5/7 frames 

Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 3/5 

Bracketed frames at 0.7EV Bias 

Time-lapse 

Micro SO 

MB?,· capacity: 64GB. Clas~ 10 9[ UHS-irati~_(:J required 

UHD: 4096x2160p 24/25, 3840x2160p24/25/30 

FHD:1920x1 080p 24/25/30/48/50/60 

HD:1280x720p 24/25/30/48/50/60 

60 Mbps 

FAT32/exFAT 

Photo: JPEG, DNG 

Video: MP4/MOV (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264) 
Operating Frequency 

Tr~nS'mittihg Diiiiahc~ 

Video Output Port 

Qp~;ating Temperatufe Range 

Battery 

Mbl:iii~Devii:::E; Holder 

Transmitter Power(EIRP) 

Voltage 

Capacity 

Voltage 

Battery Type 

EnerQY: 

Net Weight 

Operating Temperature. 

Max. Charging Power 

Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

2.400 GHz-2.483 GHz 

· 2006 r1l (O~tdocir An? U~ol:i~truded) 

USB 

ooc~ 4b~c 

6000 mAh LiPo 2S 

T~bl~ts.aiid smartphohes ~ - -, - :,' ''' < ,,, ' 

FCC: 20 dl:im; CE:16 dl:im 

. 1 

17.4 v 

4480 mAh 

:15.2V: 

LiPo 4S 

6SWh 

365 g 

-10°C- 40°<:; 

100W 

:ij'f;.-@-@· ...... Red, Green and Yellow Flash 

Alternatively Turning on and Self-Diagnostics 

:(/$::¢: ... ,:: GrE!en and Yellow Flash Alterna)ively 

:iff!:· · · · · · Green Flashes Slowly 

'~:-X2: ····;Green FlashE!S Twice 

'($:······Yellow Flashes Slowly 

:($: ...... Fast Yellow Flashing 

:if!f · · ·,, · Slow R.ed Fia§h'iog · 

-:ij'f;.- ······Fast Red Flashing 

:ij'f;.- · · · ·' · Red Flashing Alternativ~ly 

'®.:-Solid Red 

':Jffr.oftt· ·····Red ~l')d Yelb-J' Flash AliE!rnatively 

Air~raftWarinirig Up 

Safe to Fly (P-mode with GPS and Vision Positioning) 

·. Safe to Ry (P"mocJe With Vision Positioning but witflout GPS) 

Safe to Fly (A-mode but No GPS and Vision Positioning) 

Remote Controller Signal Lost 

Critical Battery Warning 

JMLn:rror 

Critical Error 

C::oi'hpas~ Calibrati_dn Required · · 

© 2015 DJI All Rights Reserved. 55 
:J> 

TI 

TI 

CD 

::J 

0. 

x· 

Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

IOC allows users to lock the control orientation of the aircraft in different modes. There are three working 

modes for IOC that can be selected in the DJI Pilot app. IOC only works when the aircraft is in F-mode, 

therefore the user must toggle the flight mode switch to activate IOC. Refer to the table below: 

course Lock (CL) 

Home Lock (HL)* 

Jhe nose direci(on, at the time that Clis set, ~ill remain the forvJard diredtbn 

regardless of how the orientation and positior of the aircraft change~.This will 

remain fb<ed Until yoU r~set it qr'exit CL modEl. . 

Record a Home Point (HP) and enter HL mode. The forward and backward 

controls will move the aircraft farther from and closer to the established Home 

Pont, regardless of how the orientation and position of the aircraft changes. 

Point of Interest. Record a point of interest (POl), The aircraft can then circle·: Point of lnt.erest (POl)* · · . around the POl and the nose will always points toward the .POL 

:\): *Home Lock and Point of Interest feature are coming soon. 

IOC Requirements 

IOC is only available under the following conditions: 

Course Lock No None None 

Home Lock Yes ~dl' Aircraft ~ Home Point 

POl Yes ~dl Aircraft , sm-soom , Point of Interest 

Using IOC 

Toggle the Flight Mode Switch F-mode and follow the instructions prompted on the DJI Pilot app to select 

the desired IOC mode. 

56 © 2015 OJ I. All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

FCC Compliance 

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and 

(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired 

operation. 

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the 

user's authority to operate the equipment. 

Compliance Information 

FCC Warning Message 

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void 

the user's authority to operate the equipment. 

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference 

received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. 

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement: 

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. 

This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator& 

your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or 

transmitter. 

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, 

pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against 

harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio 

frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful 

interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in 

a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, 

which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct 

the interference by one or more of the following measures: 

-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. 

-Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. 

-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. 

-Consult the dealer or an experienced radiorrv technician for help. 

IC RSS warning 

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard (s). Operation is subject to the 

following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any 

interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. 

Le present areil est conforme aux CNR d'lndustrie Canada licables aux areils radio exempts de licence. 

L'exploitation est autorisee aux deux conditions suivantes: 

(1) l'areil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et 

(2) l'utilisateur de l'areil doit accepter tout brouillage radioelectrique subi, meme si le brouillage est 

© 2015 DJI. All R·1ghts Reserved 57 
)> 

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0. 

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Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement. 

IC Radiation Exposure Statement: 

This equipment complies with IC RF radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. 

This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. 

This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator& 

your body. 

Any Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could 

void the user's authority to operate the equipment. 

KCC Warning Message 

"3H'S"¥-t::li~::!I::JI;':: §§% ;,sj:rrf~~ 7f3~0I S::'~£9.£ '2J~\1iS:li!f ~iC:!-E! J..il:ll~e ~ -9 'il~@LICf ." 

"aH'S" 9--t::l~l:lle §§% iS:Jnf~~ 7t3~0I 5::'~§" 

NCC Warning Message 

f[VJJ$~iEI.m~1·ii~m~w¥b¥i:t 

m-+=i~~~l:lli:ctgf2.lli"E'imziiJ:rJJ$~1~.l!~m, ~~~~!for, 0'aJ, jij"5m§llilrJEI:ff~:;r-:?®:tiE:J~~~.!!$, no 

;k:I;J]$§1\~~JJl'!:rul:~tz~·ii:&I.!:J~~a 

m-HlJil~fiJ:IJJ$~1~.l!~mz ~m:;r-:i®~~m:mil3?:@::& ::r:t~"E'ii:t®ffi; ~lfiti.Ii!~.::r:tii.Ii!~Bif, !!!&~~!!!\ 

'TJIBif7Ji®tJiiti.{~ffi a i'i1J®.:3i!®ffi, }'§1-iX~ffi)!mJ:Ei'F*Z.!!l\lllJl~@.ffi a {IJ;I.!J~1i;Jlf.li~i1\i~f?2,§?:3i! 

®il'l§l~I*, H~:&~~m~;~,~~i·ii~iJ\iruiiiz::r:tl, 

58 © 2015 OJI All Rights Reserved. 
The content is subject to change. 

Download the latest version from 

http://www.dji.com/productfphantom-3 

If you have any questions about this document, please contact DJI by 

sending a message to DocSupport@dji.com. 

(9 2015 OJ I. All Rights Reserved. 

1:~ 

-