UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

WASHINGTON, DC 

Regulatory Docket No. 

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTIONOF:

Joseph E. Houde 

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 UNMANNEDAIRCRAFT

SYSTEMS

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF2012

(PUBLIC LAW 112-95)

Submitted on

August 3, 2015 

Joseph E. Houde 

707 Kristofer St. 

Fredericksburg, TX 78624 

512-905-7723 
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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. 7 

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH JOSEPH E. HOUDE 

SEEKS EXEMPTION. 8 

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF JOSEPH E. HOUDE AND THEREASON JOSEPH E. 

HOUDE SEEKS THE RELIEF 11 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING JOSEPH E. HOUDE ’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. 34 

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR 

ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT JOSEPH E. 

HOUDE ’S REQUEST 34 .................................................................................................

CONCLUSION. 35

APPENDICES........................................................................................37 
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 

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 OperatingProcedures 

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

Joseph E. Houde 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 

Joseph E. Houde to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial 

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

landscape over certain areas of the United States. 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

Joseph E. Houde provides clients with expertise and knowledge in advanced 

technologies and solutions to increase efficiency, productivity and effectiveness.Joseph E. 

Houde has over 35 years of professional experience in Information Technology. The 

objective Joseph E. Houde’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. 

• Increase public knowledge of UAS and promote safe UASoperations. 
5

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

Joseph E. Houde seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or 

hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional is a vertical takeoff andlanding

(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 11 ounces, while having a length of 16 inches 

width of 16 inches, height of 8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 29 knots. 

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

Polymer battery powered electric motors. 

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS that will be operated by Joseph E. Houde 

will be registered as N847TX 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, Joseph E. Houde, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation 

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 UAS inthe 

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, Joseph E. Houde’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, Joseph E. Houde 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. 

Joseph E. Houde submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent 

level of safety will be ensured. Joseph E. Houde 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 InstructionManual). 

Furthermore, Joseph E. Houde will document and maintain all maintenance records for the 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS. 

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

privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by Joseph E. Houde to the 

extent necessary to allow 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 flight- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including 

evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, 

vessels, vehicles and structures. 
7

Joseph E. Houde 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, Joseph 

E. Houde submits that he will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 ProfessionalUAS is in an 

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

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

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

Joseph E. Houde also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, 

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

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

Professional UA will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) 

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

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

Joseph E. Houde’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, Joseph E. Houde seeks an exemption from the requirements of 

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

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

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

visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 
8
9

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, Joseph E. Houde 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: 

Joseph E. Houde

707 Kristofer St. 

Fredericksburg, TX 78624 

Tel: 512-905-7723 

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which Joseph E. Houde Seeks 

Exemption.

1. Joseph E. Houde Seeks Exemption From The Requirements OfSection 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. Joseph E. Houde Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a).

Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, subsection (a), statesthe

following:
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11

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

3. Joseph E. Houde 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 isset,

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

departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting availablebefore

departure. 

4. Joseph E. Houde Seeks Exemption From The Requirements OfSection

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. Joseph E. Houde 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 anaircraft— 
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13

(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. Joseph E. Houde Seeks Exemption From The Requirements OfSection

91.407(a)(1)

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventivemaintenance, 

rebuilding, or alteration, subsection (a)(1), states thefollowing:

(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. Joseph E. Houde 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. Joseph E. Houde Seeks Exemption From The Requirements OfSections

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 theperiods 

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 
14

inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and 
15

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 whichthe

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. 
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(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 Joseph E. Houde Seeks And The Reason Joseph E. 

Houde Seeks The Relief.

1. Extent Of Relief Joseph E. Houde Seeks And The Reason Joseph E. Houde 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, Joseph E. Houde 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. 
18

Further, Joseph E. Houde 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 Joseph E. Houde’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for 

compensation or hire. 

2. Extent Of Relief Joseph E. Houde Seeks And The Reason Joseph E. Houde 

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 Joseph E. Houde to determine that the DJI Phantom3 

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). 

Joseph E. Houde 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, Joseph E. Houde 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 3Professional 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 Joseph E. Houde Seeks And The Reason Joseph E. Houde 

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 UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). 
19

Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be 
20

reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), Joseph E. Houde 

seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAaltimeter 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 UA 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 theGCS. 

4. Extent Of Relief Joseph E. Houde Seeks And The Reason Joseph E. Houde 

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 UA 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. 

Joseph E. Houde 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 UA 

will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or stillphoto flight operations 

that Joseph E. Houde proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. 

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 
21

Professional UAS, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional operating documents, and Joseph E. 
22

Houde’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that Joseph E. Houde willsafely operate 

the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA during daylight hoursin 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 Joseph E. Houde Seeks And The Reason Joseph E. Houde 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, Joseph E. Houde 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, Joseph E. Houde 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, Joseph E. Houde will 

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

D.The Reasons Why Granting Joseph E. Houde’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 Joseph E. 

Houde to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of 

construction sites, real estate, and landscape over certain areas of the United States.
23

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS will decreasecongestion

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

benefits of Joseph E. Houde’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS 

will be realized without implicating any privacyissues. 

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

The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA 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 UASwould 

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 UA does not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a 

reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missionswould 

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 

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 
24
25

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 UA,while

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

UAs 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 UA (weighing approximately 2 pounds 11 

ounces, at its maximum gross weight with a length of 16 inches, widths of 16 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 typicallyconduct 

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 Joseph e. Houde’s, to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the

U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental
26

Protection Agency (“EPA”) regulatory actions phasing out leaded aviation fuels, U.S. 
27

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 mannedaircraft. 

By operating the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS, companies such as Joseph E. 

Houde’s , can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job 

stability to employees 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 Professional 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, Joseph E. Houde’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. 
28

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 Joseph E. Houde Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA 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, Joseph E. Houde’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 nationalsecurity.

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 underthis 

section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the
29
30

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, Joseph E. Houde 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 FlightAnd 

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 25-35 of the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional and pages 12-16 User Manual, attached hereto as Exhibit B. 

iii. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is Designed ForAutomatic 

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 
31

stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom3 
32

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

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 27 through 29 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 32 through 43 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.

Joseph E. Houde 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, Joseph E. Houde 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 followingspecific

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 ProfessionalUnmanned 
33

Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new 

petition or a petition to amend thisgrant. 

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. Ifa 

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 
34

questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents. 
35

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 

third- class medical certificate. 

18.The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meetsthe 

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.F.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 
36

operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA 
37

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.F.R. § 

19.1.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. 

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 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. 

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 of unpredicted 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 (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. 

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

serial number, registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have 

identification (N- Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.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 
38
39

Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency 

requirements. 

28.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. 

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 hasgranted

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. 

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section61.113(a)

And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.
40

Joseph E. Houde 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 Joseph E. Houde’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, 

Joseph E. Houde submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a 

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

Joseph E. Houde’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). 

Joseph E. Houde 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 amanner 
41

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.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 Joseph E. Houde’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 
42
43

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, Joseph E. Houde will ensure safe operations by not allowingany 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 andstructures. 

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section91.7(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, Joseph E. Houde will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance withits 

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 bemaintained

because the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA will be provided to 

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

downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. 
44
45

This altitude information, combined with Joseph E. Houde’s operation of the DJI Phantom 

3 Professional UA 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, Joseph E. Houde will ensure 

that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 Professional UA 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 Phantom3 

Professional UAS; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location ofthe 

proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14C.F.R. 

Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 Professional
46

UAS provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UAs 
47

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 Vision+ 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, Joseph E. Houde 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 Joseph E. Houde 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, Joseph E. Houde will document and 

maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS. 
48
49

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

operating documents, Joseph E. Houde will maintain the equivalent level ofsafety 

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 theDJI 

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

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Joseph E. 

Houde 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 concerningSections

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 Joseph E. Houde’s proposed operating limitations, the operating 

documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS, Joseph E. 

Houde 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, 
50
51

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, Joseph E. Houde 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. Part21,

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 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 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 
52

adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller 
53

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 14C.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 Joseph E. Houde Seeks Exemption:

Joseph E. Houde 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 Joseph E. Houde Seeks:

This exemption will permit Joseph E. Houde 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 

Joseph E. Houde’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, Joseph E. Houde’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. 
54
55

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, Joseph E. Houde will operate the DJI Phantom3 

Professional UAS safely in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, orthe 

public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. 

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, Joseph E. Houde seeks an exemption pursuant to 14C.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 UAScommercially, 

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 Joseph E. 

Houde to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS commercially within the NAS. 

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and theFAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Joseph E. Houde 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 Joseph E. Houde to operate the DJI

Phantom 3 Professional UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video 
56

58

APPENDIX – A 

DJI PHANTOM 3 PROFESSIONAL TECHNICAL

SPECIFICATIONS

Joseph E. Houde only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in small 

UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the userto 

set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be 

set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as well as limit flight

to a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real-time altitude

and location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices) 

1. DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

1.1. Aircraft 

1.1.1. Supported Battery – DJI 4480mAH LiPo Battery 

1.1.2. Weight (Battery & Propellers Included) – 2lbs 11.810oz (1242g) 

1.1.3. Hover Accuracy (Ready to Fly) – Vertical: .8m; Horizontal: 2.5m 

1.1.4. Max Yaw Angular Velocity - 2000/s 

1.1.5. Max Tilt Angel - 350 

1.1.6. Max Ascent Speed – 6m/s 

1.1.7. Max Descent Speed – 2m/s 

1.1.8. Max Flight Speed – 15m/s (NOT RECOMMENDED) 

1.2. Gimbal 

1.2.1. Working Current – Static: 750mA; Dynamic: 900mA 

1.2.2. Control Accuracy - ±0.030 

1.2.3. Controllable Range – Pitch: -900 - 00 

1.2.4. Maximum Angular Speed – Pitch: 900/s 

1.3. Camera 

1.3.1. Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C) 

1.3.2. Sensor Size – 1/2.3” 

1.3.3. Effective Pixels – 14M 

1.3.4. Resolution – 4384x3288 

5. HD Video Recording – 1080p30 & 720p 

6. Recording Field of View - 1100/850 

4. Transmitter 

4.1. Operating Frequency – 5.728GHz – 5.85GHz 

4.2. Communication Distance (unobstructed) – FCC Compliance: 800m 

4.3. Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) - -93dBm 

4.4. Transmitter Power – FCC Compliance: 100mW 

4.5. Working Voltage – 120mA@3.7V 

5. Range Extender 

5.1. Operating Frequency – 2412-2462MHz 

5.2. Communication Distance (unobstructed) – 500-700m 
59

5.3. Transmitter Power – 20dBm 

5.4. Power Consumption – 2W 

APPENDIX – B 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional Manufacturer’s User Manual (Yet to be Published) 

APPENDIX – E

MONTHLY$MAINTENANCE

$LOG month: (year: 

UAS$#:$ Date(Issu

e( Discov

Date(Issu

e(Addres

Issue(DescripBon(&(Maintenance(Conducted Maintenance(Performed(By:(((

Print(&(Sign

SoKware(Updates

Airframe(

Engines

Propellers

Camera(Gimbal

Landing(Gear

VibraBon(Dampening

Other: