Regulatory Docket No. 

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: 

SORA AERIAL

FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF 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)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL

OPERATION OF DJI PHANTOM 3 PROFESSIONAL UNMANNED

AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012

(PUBLIC LAW 112-95)

Submitted on June 27, 2015

Will Adrion, Sole Proprietor

Sora Aerial

6502 Bellbrook Place

Worthington, OH 43085

Tel: 614-571-7494
2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

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

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

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

BACKGROUND ...................................................................................................................5

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

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER. ...........................................................8

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH SORA AERIAL 

SEEKS EXEMPTION................................................................................8

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF SORA AERIAL AND THE REASON SORA 

AERIAL SEEKS THE RELIEF.............................. ............... 12

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING SORA AERIAL’S REQUEST WOULD BE 

IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST .......... ....................................................................15

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT

ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY......................................................................... 19

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER. ....33

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS 

AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT SORA AERIAL’S REQUEST.........................33

CONCLUSION................................................................................................................... 34

APPENDICES........................................................................................35
3

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

ATC Air Traffic Control

ATO Air Traffic Organization

AV Aerial Vehicle

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

COA Certificate of Authorization

FAA Federal Aviation Administration

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation

FMRA FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012

GCS Ground Control Station

GPS Global Positioning System

LOL Loss of Link

NAS National Airspace System

NOTAM Notice to Airman

PIC Pilot in Command

Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333 

SO Safety Observer

SOP Standard Operating Procedures

UA Unmanned Aircraft

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System

VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing
4

SUMMARY

SORA AERIAL 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)(1), 91.409(a)(1) &

(a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 

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

permit SORA AERIAL to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the 

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

estate, and special events over certain areas of the United States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

SORA AERIAL provides clients with expertise and knowledge in advanced 

technologies and solutions to increase efficiency, productivity and effectiveness. The 

objective of SORA AERIAL’s aerial video and photography operations is to provide high 

quality imaging for a variety of commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically 

targeting:

 Real estate and private property aerial photography

 Aerial acquisitions used for inspections of public and private structures.

 Special Event aerial photography and video

 Increase public knowledge of UAS and promote safe UAS operations.
5

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3 Professional

SORA AERIAL seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or 

hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional is a 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 Professional has a maximum

gross weight of approximately 2 pounds 8 ounces, a maximum controllable range of 1 1⁄2 

miles, and a maximum speed of approximately 31 knots.

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium

Polymer battery powered electric motors.

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS that will be operated by SORA AERIAL 

will be registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft, as well as 

14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration, and marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, 

Identification and Registration Marking.

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, SORA AERIAL, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation

Administration Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform 

Act of 2012 (FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems,

hereby petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional 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, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) &

(a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).
6

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

the unmanned aircraft and its operation, SORA AERIAL’s operation of DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will not require 

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

Accordingly, SORA AERIAL requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements for 

maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate.

SORA AERIAL submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of 

safety will be ensured. SORA AERIAL will use experienced personnel or technicians to 

perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, 

techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance 

Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Professional Instruction Manual). Furthermore, SORA AERIAL will 

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

Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §§ 61.113 (a) & (b), private pilots are limited to non-commercial 

operations. SORA AERAL can achieve an equivalent level of safety as achieved by current 

Regulations because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS does not carry any pilots or 

passengers. Further, while helpful, a pilot license will not ensure remote control piloting skills. 

The risks attended to the operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is far less than the

risk levels inherent in the commercial activities outlined in 14 C.F.R. § 61, et seq. Thus, 

allowing SORA AERIAL to meet and exceed current safety levels in relation to 14 C.F.R. 

§61.113 (a) & (b).

 
7

SORA AERIAL seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft 

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

airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, SORA 

AERIAL submits that he will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is in an 

airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS is in compliance 

with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft is in a condition for safe flight.

SORA AERIAL also seeks an exemption from the Requirements of Section 91.121, 

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

barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS will be provided to the operator via Global Positioning System (GPS)

equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UAS

to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined 

with SORA AERIAL’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS within visual

line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 

91.121.

Additionally, SORA AERIAL seeks an exemption from the Requirements of

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

AERIAL submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under 

visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total
8

duration of approximately 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming 

normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes.

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, SORA AERIAL 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:

SORA AERIAL

6502 Bellbrook Place

Worthington, OH 43085

Tel: (614) 571-7494

Email: SoraAerial@gmail.com

B. The Specific Sections of 14 C.F.R. From Which SORA AERIAL Seeks Exemption.

1. SORA AERIAL 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) prescribe 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. SORA AERIAL Seeks Exemption from the Requirements of Section 

91.7(a).

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

following:
9

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

3. SORA AERIAL 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 100 nautical miles of the aircraft;

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

this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate

available station; or

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

departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before

departure.

4. SORA AERIAL 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 in 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. SORA AERIAL 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—
10

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

between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this 

section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.]

6. SORA AERIAL Seeks Exemption from the Requirements of Section 

91.407(a)(1)

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, 

rebuilding, or alteration, subsection (a)(1), 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 of this chapter[.]

7. SORA AERIAL Seeks Exemption from the Requirements of Sections 

91.409(a)(1) 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. SORA AERIAL 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 100-hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved

inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and
11

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 of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each 

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

propellers, and appliances.

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

prescribed:

(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.
12

(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 SORA AERIAL seeks and the Reason SORA AERIAL 

Seeks the Relief.

1. Extent of Relief SORA AERIAL Seeks and the Reason SORA AERIAL 

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 flight-hour 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, SORA AERIAL submits that an equivalent level of 

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

Professional UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, 

demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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.
13

Further, SORA AERIAL submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

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

SORA AERIAL’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for 

compensation or hire.

2. Extent of Relief SORA AERIAL Seeks and the reason SORA AERIAL 

Seeks Relief from Section 91.7(a).

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

extent required to allow SORA AERIAL to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 

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

is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional Instruction Manual).

SORA AERIAL seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS does not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H. Therefore, SORA AERIAL will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS is in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents 

(i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Professional Instruction Manual) 

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 SORA AERIAL Seeks and the Reason SORA AERIAL 

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 Professional UAS, which utilize a barometric

pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to

downlink altitude information from the UAS to the PIC at the ground control station 

(GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations 
14

be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), SORA AERIAL

seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS 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 CFR

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 Professional 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 UAS on the heads-up display of the GCS.

4. Extent of Relief SORA AERIAL Seeks and the Reason SORA AERIAL 

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 Professional UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions

(VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first 

point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least

4.5 minutes. SORA AERIAL seeks the requested relief because without an exemption 

from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo 

flight operations that SORA AERIAL proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition.
15

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

Professional UAS, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional operating documents, and SORA 

AERIAL’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that SORA AERIAL will safely operate 

the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS during daylight hours in visual 

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

power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, 

assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes.

5. Extent of Relief SORA AERIAL Seeks and the Reason SORA AERIAL 

Seeks Relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), 

and 91.417(a) & (b).

Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) 

only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, SORA AERIAL requests relief 

from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS does not require 

airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness 

certificate. Accordingly, SORA AERIAL will use trained technicians to perform 

maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, 

techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., Monthly 

Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Professional). Furthermore, SORA AERIAL will 

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

D.The Reasons why Granting SORA AERIAL’s 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 SORA 

AERIAL to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and
16

photography of construction sites, real estate, and special events over certain areas of the

United States.

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

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

the benefits of SORA AERIAL’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

1. The Public will Benefit from Decreased Congestion of the NAS.

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is battery powered and serves 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 Professional 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.

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 Professional 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 Professional UAS.

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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
17

operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional

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 of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS, while 

reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the 

UASs are propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion

engine.

By using the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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 Professional UAS (weighing approximately 2 pounds 8

ounces, at its maximum gross weight 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 Professional UAS Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is also

an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As 

such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS will allow United States based 

companies, like SORA AERIAL’s, to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the 

U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the
18

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 Professional

UASs 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.

4. There Are No Privacy Issues.

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

decades, SORA AERIAL’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS 

will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS 

will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance

Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Professional) 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.F.R. § 91.119.
19

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 SORA AERIAL Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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, SORA AERIAL’s operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UAS meets the conditions of FMRA 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 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.--If the Secretary determines under this 

section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the
20

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, SORA AERIAL submits that the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as 

demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS; (b) the

pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations.

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS 

Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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 Professional UAS.

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is set forth by

the DJI Phantom 3 Professional Specifications and Data Sheet, attached hereto as Exhibit

A.

ii. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS Autonomous Flight And 

Navigation Modes Enable The UASs To Remain Within A Defined 

Operational Area.

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS may be operated in both manual and fully 

autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of 

the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is provided at pages 11-13 of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional and pages 25-33 User Manual, attached hereto as Exhibit B.

iii. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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 Professional UA will remain 

stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS does not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAs will assume 
21

that the Control Link is lost and the UAs will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe 

mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown.

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS are set forth at pages 14 through 15 of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

User Manual, attached hereto as Exhibit B.

iv. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional GCS and Its Operation.

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

Professional GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 35 through 39 of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional User Manual. DJI Phantom 3 Professional User Manual is 

attached hereto as Exhibits B.

b. Flight Operations of DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is Limited to

the Line Of Sight of a Certificated Pilot in Command with a Safety 

Observer.

SORA AERIAL will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current and valid 

airman medical certificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist all pilots during flight time.

c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS Will Be Conducted 

Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, SORA AERIAL proposes to commercially operate DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional 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 UASs weighing less 

than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 Professional Unmanned
22

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 feet AGL.

5. The UA 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 prescribed 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 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.
23

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

17.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological

conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made 

at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special 

visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

18. 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 NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. 

The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to 

the Administrator upon request.

19. 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.
24

20. 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.

21. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or 

emergencies in accordance with the operating documents.

22. 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.

23. 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 (NOTAM) 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.

24. 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.

25. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.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.

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

operations and activities at all times.

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

28. 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 
25

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).

29. 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.

30. 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.

2. Reasons Why an Exemption from the Requirements of Section 61.113(a)

and (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.
26

SORA AERIAL 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 Professional 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 Professional UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including 

evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people,

vessels, vehicles and structures.

Considering SORA AERIAL’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. 11062); and 

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

SORA AERIAL submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a 

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

SORA AERIAL’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).

SORA AERIAL will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

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

the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is 

able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS in a manner consistent
27

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.F.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 of 

UAS 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 SORA AERIAL’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 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of

total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS 

pilot with a multi-rotor UAS. 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
28

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, SORA AERIAL will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC 

to operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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 Professional 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, SORA AERIAL will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional 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 Professional UAS will be provided 

to the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which

downlinks from the UAS to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. 

This altitude
29

information, combined with SORA AERIAL’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 400 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 UASs 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 (1) the technical specifications of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UAS; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3)

the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, SORA AERIAL will ensure 

that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS during 

daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of

13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to 

fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes.

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional 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.F.R. 

Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 Professional

UAS provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UAs experiences

low
30

battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 30% remaining battery power, 

and again at approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery 

level, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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 prescribed 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)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would 

Not Adversely Affect Safety.

In seeking this exemption, SORA AERIAL 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)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met 

because SORA AERIAL will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, 

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

prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 

3 Professional Instruction Manual). Furthermore, SORA AERIAL will document and 

maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS.
31

Since the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the

operating documents, SORA AERIAL will maintain the equivalent level of safety 

established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional User Manual is attached hereto as Exhibit B; a copy of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Exhibit C.

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

AERIAL will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive 

maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed 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 Professional 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)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (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 SORA AERIAL’s proposed operating limitations, the operating 

documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS, SORA 

AERIAL submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 

C.F.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,
32

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

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

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

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, SORA AERIAL requests that 

the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds 

necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 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). Such special conditions will

permit safe operation of the UASs 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 prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R.

§ 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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 of the 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
33

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

propeller, he prescribes 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.F.R. § 21.16.

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

may prescribe special conditions for Leading Edge’s intended operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UAS, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator

finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.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).

F. A Summary That Can Be Published in the Federal Register, stating: The Rules 

from Which SORA AERIAL Seeks Exemption:

SORA AERIAL 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 SORA AERIAL Seeks:

This exemption will permit SORA AERIAL to commercially operate an Unmanned 

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

over certain areas of the United States.

G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available to Support

SORA AERIAL’s Request.

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain 

UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, SORA AERIAL’s request for exemption 

may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as 

set forth above.
34

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.

As discussed in detail above, SORA AERIAL will operate the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional 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.

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, SORA AERIAL seeks an exemption pursuant to 14

C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, 

by allowing SORA AERIAL to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UAS commercially within the NAS.

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Administration

Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, SORA 

AERIAL 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)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit SORA 

AERIAL to operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS commercially for the purpose of
35

conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United

States. Dated: June 27, 2015

Respectfully submitted, 

William T Adrion

SORA AERIAL

6502 Bellbrook Place

Worthington, OH 43085

Tel: (614) 571-7494

Appendices:

A – DJI Phantom 3 Professional Specifications Data Sheet

B – DJI Phantom 3 Professional Manufacturer’s Manual

C – Monthly Maintenance Log

D – Unmanned Vehicle University Training Certification 

Document

APPENDIX – A

DJI PHANTOM 3 PROFESSIONAL TECHNICAL

SPECIFICATIONS

See attached PDF file of DJI Phantom 3 Professional User Manual.

 William T Adrion
36

APPENDIX – B

See attached PDF file of DJI Phantom 3 Professional User Manual.
37

APPENDIX – C

MONTHLY MAINTENANCE LOG

month: year:

UAS #:

Date Issue 

Discovered

Date Issue 

Addressed Issue Description & Maintenance Conducted

Maintenance Performed By:

Print & Sign

Software Updates

Airframe

Engines

Propellers

Camera Gimbal

Landing Gear

Vibration Dampening

Other:

APPENDIX – D

See attached PDF file of UVU Certification.