U.S. Department of Transportation 

Docket Operations, M-30 

Randle Smolarz 

Attorney at Law 

850 Barkman Creek Road 

Hooks, TX 75561 

jrsmolarz@gmail. com 

(903) 277-9213 

August 12,2015 

West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140 

1200 New Jersey Ave. SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Exemption Request Section 333 of the FAA Reform Act and Part 11 of the 

Federal Aviation Regulations from 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H- Airworthiness 

Certificates, 14 CFR 45.23 (b),14 CFR 61.113, (a) & (b), 14 CFR 91.7 (a), 14 CFR 

91.9 (b) (2), 14 CFR 91.103 (b), 14 CFR 109, 14 CFR 91.119, 14 CFR 91.113, 14 CFR 

91.121, 14 CFR 91.145 (b), 14 CFR 91.151, 14 CFR 91.203 (a) & (b), 14 CFR 91.405 

(a); 407 (a) (1); 409 (a); 417 (a) & (b), 14 CFR 407, 14 CFR 409, 14 CFR 417, 

NOT AM 9/5151 

I. Summary 

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernizations and Reform Act of 2012 and 14 CFR Part 

11, Square World Media, LLC (dba TXKtoday.com)("Petitioner"), operator of Small Unmanned 

Aircraft Systems ("UASs") equipped to conduct aerial photography for TXKtoday.com for the 

purpose of electronic news gathering ("ENG") in and around Texarkana, Texas, hereby applies 

for an exemption from the listed Federal Aviation Regulations ("F ARs") to allow commercial 

operation ofUASs under the conditions outlined here or modified by the FAA. 

In the detailed explanation to follow, the series of exemptions being requested would allow 

operation of the commercially procured, off-the-shelfDJI PHANTOM 2 VISION+ quad-copter! 

UAS equipped with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) digital camera. Following 

exemption and approval by the FAA, the intended use of this equipment will be for a vast array 

of events such as electronic news gathering (ENG). Much like the movie industry, aerial news 

and traffic/weather information gathering is both useful and entertaining to the general public. 

The quick deployment and less restrictive weather constraints will create a safer environment, 

while delivering a superior and timelier product to the general public, providing near real time 

information for traffic, severe weather and crime scene avoidance considerations. 

Based on the small size of Petitioner's UAS, the qualifications and experience of Petitioner's 

UAS operators, and the restricted, sterile environment within which Petitioner will operate, the 

requested exemptions fall squarely within the zone of safety envisioned by Congress and set 

forth in Section 333. Additionally, the enhanced safety achieved by replacing significantly larger 

manned aircraft carrying crew and flammable fuel with small UAS carrying no passengers or 

crew and operated under the specific guidelines and procedures proposed by Petitioner gives the 

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FAA good cause to find that the UAS operations enabled by the instant Petition are in the public 

interest. Therefore, the requested exemptions should be granted. 

II. N arne of Petitioner 

The following is contact information for the applicant: 

TXKtoday.com 

5502 Cowhorn Creek Rd, Ste B 

Texarkana, TX 75503 

Attn: Field Walsh 

Title: Owner of Square World Media, LCC (dba TXKtoday.com) 

Cell: (903) 280-8051 

Email: field@txktoday. com 

The following is contact information for the applicant with regards to the application: 

Randle Smolarz 

Counsel for TXKtoday.com 

Telephone: (903) 277-9213 

Email: jrsmolarz@gmail. com 

Address: 850 Barkman Creek Road, Hooks, TX 75561 

III. Bacl\.ground of Petitioner 

Petitioner is a professional photojournalist, who earns his living as the owner of an online news 

organization in and around Texarkana, Texas. He regularly covers breaking news on scene. 

The wide availability of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems, also known as "microdrones," 

capable of carrying high-quality video cameras and priced at affordable levels intrigued the 

Petitioner. His entire professional career has involved exploring new technologies and adapting 

them to capture good imagery. Several years ago, he bought a DJI Phantom 2 and has flown it 

for total of 25 hours over remote areas of the Texarkana metropolitan area, over remote locations 

in Northeast Texas and Southwest Arkansas for recreational purposes, exploring the potential 

and the limitations of its video subsystem. 

He is pleased with the quality of the imagery captured and has edited it into a number of 

photographic vignettes that meet his high standards for technical quality and artistic merit. Now, 

a number of people, some professional colleagues and some strangers, have heard about 

Petitioner's activities and have seen the results and are pressing Petitioner to undertake this 

technology for news purposes as well as additional microdrone photography for compensation. 

He has been advised by counsel that this is not now permissible unless he obtains special 

permission from the FAA. He also notes and has read the congressional mandate in sections 332 

and 333 of the FAA Revitalization and Reform Act of 2012 that the FAA moved quickly to 

accommodate the economic and societal benefits that can result from widespread deployment of 

UAS technology. Accordingly, Petitioner applies for authorization under the Federal Aviation 

Act, and the F ARs rules to undertake the following activities for commercial purposes. 

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IV. Statutory Authority 

The Federal Aviation Act grants the FAA authority to issue exemptions to any regulations made 

pursuant to this title under 49 U.S.C. §44701(±), should the exemption be deemed to be in the 

public interest. 

Section 333(b) of the Reform Act gives guidance in determining whether a UAS may operate 

safely within the National Airspace System (NAS) without creating hazard to the user or the 

. public. The factors to be considered under this subsection are: 

• The size, weight, speed, and operational capability of the UAS~ 

• Whether the operation of the U AS will be in close proximity to airports and populated 

areas; and 

• Whether the operation of the UAS will be within visual line of sight of the operator. 

V. Requirements- 14 CFR Part 11.81 

A. Contact Information- Subsection (a) 

TXKtoday.com 

5502 Cowhom Creek Rd, Ste B 

Texarkana, TX 75503 

Attn: Field Walsh 

Title: Owner of Square World Media, LCC (dba TXKtoday.com) 

Cell: (903) 280-8051 

Email: field@txktoday.com 

B. Specific Regulations - Subsection (b) 

The FAA considers unmanned aircraft as "aircraft" flown by a "pilot" regardless of the location 

of the pilot. All aircraft and pilots must comply with applicable sections of Title 14 of the Code 

of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) and other rules/regulations to operate within the National 

Airspace. Unmanned aircraft are unable to comply with certain sections of 14 CFR as the 

regulations were written prior to the consideration of small UAS integration within the national 

airspace. Therefore, Petitioner is requesting an exemption from certain parts of 14 CFR cited 

below in addition to such further exemptions and relief as the FAA may determine is necessary 

to permit the operations described herein. 

• 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H 

• Airworthiness Certificates 

14 CFR 45.23 (b) 

• Aircraft Marking 

• Certification and Registration 

14 CFR 61.113 (a) & (b) 

• Pilot in Command 

• 14 CFR 91.7 (a) 

• Civil aircraft airworthiness 

14 CFR 91.9 (b) (2) 

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• Document/Flight Manuals 

• 14 CFR 91.103 

• Preflight action 

14 CFR 91.105 

• Flight crewmembers at stations 

14 CFR 91.109 

• Flight instruction 

14 CFR 91.113 

• Right-of-way rules 

14 CFR 91.119 

• Minimum safe altitude 

• 14 CFR 91.121 

• Altimeter setting 

14 CFR 91.145 (b) 

• Management of aircraft operations in the vicinity of aerial demonstrations and 

major sporting events. 

14 CFR 91.151 

• Fuel requirements for VFR flight 

14 CFR 91.203 (a) & (b) 

• Civil Aircraft: Certifications required 

14 CFR 91.405 (a); 407 (a) (1); 409 (a); 417 (a) & (b) 

• Maintenance and maintenance inspections 

14 CFR407 

• Operation after Maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding and inspections 

14 CFR 409 

• Inspections 

14 CFR417 

• Maintenance records 

• NOTAM 9/5151 

• Flying Around Sporting Events 

C. Extent of Relief Sought- Part (c) 

1. Introduction 

Petitioner seeks relief pursuant to this exemption from applicable parts of the FAA and other 

rules/regulations to the extent necessary to permit civil flight operations within the national 

airspace. Petitioner seeks authorization to conduct small UAS flight operations within the 

perimeters of this exemption request. 

2. 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H- Airworthiness Certificates 14 CFR 

91.203 (a)(1) 

Subpart H (Airworthiness Certificates) defines the requirements for airworthiness certificate 

issuance lAW FAR 91.203 (a) (1). Existing law (49 USC 44701 (f)), Part 11 and Section 333 

allow the FAA to exempt aircraft from the requirements of an airworthiness certificate upon 

consideration of the size, weight, speed, operational capability and proximity to airports and 

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populated areas of the identified UAS. Unlike a manned helicopter, the UAS being employed is 

lightweight, has no flammable fuel or other lubricants, operates at very slow speeds and stays 

well below any conflicting air traffic thereby providing, an equivalent level of safety when 

compared to currently employed manned aircraft. 

The proposed UAS to be employed is under 55 lbs. when outfitted with all equipment and 

batteries. There are no flammable liquids or other hazardous materials that would propose a 

danger to the public or event participants. Accordingly, no threat to national security exists due 

to the inability of carriage of any external stores or ordnance and the exhaustive vetting of team 

personnel. All activities will be closely monitored by aviation professionals and using a system 

with redundancies in all areas. 

3. 14 CFR 45.23 (b) Display of Marks; general 

CFR 45.23 states: 

When marks include only the Roman capital letter "N" and the registration number is displayed 

on limited, restricted or light-sport category aircraft or experimental or provisionally certificated 

aircraft, the operator must also display on that aircraft near each entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or 

pilot station, in letters not less than 2 inches nor more than 6 inches high, the words "limited," 

"restricted," "light-sport," "experimental," or "provisional," as applicable. 

An exemption to this section is needed due to the lack of a cabin, cockpit or pilot station where 

any reference to the term "Experimental" could be affixed. Accordingly, the wording will be 

placed on the fuselage. This equivalent level of safety will allow the team to clearly see 

"Experimental." Previous precedence exists within Exemptions 10700, 10167, and 10167A. 

4. CFR 61.113 (a) & (b) Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: Pilot in 

Command 

CFR 61.113 (a) & (b) states: 

(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (h) of this section, no person who holds a 

private pilot certificate may act as pilot in command of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or 

property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in 

command of an aircraft. 

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command 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. 

To reach an equivalent level of safety, the self-imposed experience and training requirements 

would more than offset any risk introduced by using private pilots to fly an unmanned aircraft in 

very restricted and controlled areas. 

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5. CFR 91.7 (a) Civil aircraft worthiness 

CFR 91.7 (a) states: 

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

Assuming no airworthiness certificate will be required due to relief from Subpart H, no 

regulatory standard exists for determining airworthiness. The equivalent level of safety will be 

achieved through the employment of flight manual and maintenance manual procedures, pilot 

training and analytical risk management for each event. 

6. CFR 91.9 (b) (2) Civil Aircraft Flight Manual in the Aircraft 

CFR 91.9 (b) (2) states: 

No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraftFor which an Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual is not required by § 21.5 of this chapter, 

unless there is available in the aircraft a current approved Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual, 

approved manual material, markings, and placards, or any combination thereof. 

Given the size of the UAS being utilized in this endeavor, there is no room onboard for an 

aircraft flight manual. 

The equivalent level of safety will be achieved by keeping the flight manual with the pilot/team 

on the ground with easy access. Previous precedence is resident in Exemptions 8607, 8737, 

f8738, 9299, 9299A, 9565, 9565B, 10167, 10167A, 10602, £32827, and 10700. 

7. CFR 91.103 (b) Preflight action 

CFR 91.103 (b) states: 

Each pilot in command shall, before beginning a flight, become familiar with all available 

information concerning that flight. This information must include-

(b) For any flight, runway lengths at airports of intended use, and the following takeoff and 

landing distance information: 

( 1) For civil aircraft for which an approved Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual containing 

takeoff and landing distance data is required, the takeoff and landing distance data contained 

therein; and 

(2) For civil aircraft other than those specified in paragraph (b)(l) of this section, other reliable 

information appropriate to the aircraft, relating to aircraft performance under expected values of 

airport elevation and runway slope, aircraft gross weight, and wind and temperature. 

This regulation dictates that a pilot conduct preflight activities. Without an FAA approved flight 

manual, relief is required from this regulation. Extensive pre-flight planning will provide an 

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equivalent level of safety by using the operations plan, aircraft flight manual, maintenance 

manual and available weather and NOT AM information. 

8. CFR 91.109 Flight instruction 

CPR 91.109 states: 

No person may operate a civil aircraft (except a manned free balloon) that is being used for flight 

instruction unless that aircraft has fully functioning dual controls. 

UASs clearly have no onboard flight controls. An equivalent level of safety will be accomplished 

by conducting pilot training via the control system that communicates with the aircraft from the 

ground. TXKtoday.com intends to conduct this training on test site owned by the owner of 

TXKtoday.com under controlled conditions. 

9. CFR 91.113 Right-of-way rules: Except water operations. 

CPR 91.113 deals with the many scenarios whereby different types of aircraft in different states 

must give way to other aircraft. 

Because the UAS PIC does not have "see and avoid" capability, Petitioner requests relief from 

this regulation. All operations will be within LOS of the pilot and well below any airspace where 

other flight activity is taking place. 

10. CFR 91.119 (d) (1) Minimum safe altitudes; general 

CPR 91.119 states: 

(d) Helicopters, powered parachutes, and weight-shift-control aircraft. If the operation is 

conducted without hazard to persons or property on the surface-

( 1) A helicopter may be operated at less than the minimums prescribed in paragraph (b) or (c) of 

this section, provided each person operating the helicopter cornplies with any routes or altitudes 

specifically prescribed for helicopters by the FAA. 

Due to the size and speed of Petitioner's UAS, the device may be operated at less than the 

minimums prescribed in paragraph (b) or (c) of this Section. The regulation states that over 

populated areas the aircraft cannot be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vesset vehicle, 

or structure. Since the typical photo assignment would be photography of unopened intersections 

and/or roads, it may become necessary to operate at distances closer than 500 feet. Due to the 

small size and weight of the UAS and the type of locations it will be flying over, operating the 

device at a closer proximity would not adversely affect public safety or national security. 

Also the UAS will not carry a pilot or any passengers and will also not store any types of 

flammable or hazardous liquids on board therefore greatly reducing any potential harm. An 

equivalent level of safety to that achieved by this provision will be achieved in Petitioner's 

proposed operations given the size, weight, and speed of the U AS as well as the nature of the 

proposed use of the UAS. The majority of flight operations will take place over closed 

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construction sites and other sparsely populated areas. No flight will be taken without notice to 

identifiable stakeholders. 

11. CFR 91.121 Altimeter settings 

CFR 91.121 states: 

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 operatingBelow 18,000 feet MSL, toThe current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 100 nautical miles 

of the aircraft; 

The UAS aircraft intended for this activity will not be equipped with a barometric altimeter. 

Instead it will incorporate radio altimetry via the on board GPS. An equivalent level of safety will 

be achieved through use of the operations and maintenance manuals governing altitude control. 

A preflight calibration of launch site altitude will be accomplished. 

12. CFR 91.145 (b) Management of aircraft operations in the vicinity of 

aerial demonstrations and major sporting events. 

CFR 91.145 states: 

In deciding whether a temporary flight restriction is necessary for an aerial demonstration or 

major sporting event not listed in paragraph (a) of this section, the FAA considers the following 

factors: 

1. Area where the event will be held. 

2. Effect flight restrictions will have on lmown aircraft operations. 

3. Any existing ATC airspace traffic management restrictions. 

4. Estimated duration of the event. 

5. Degree of public interest. 

6. Number of spectators. 

7. Provisions for spectator safety. 

8. Number and types of participating aircraft. 

9. Use of mixed high and low performance aircraft. 

10. Impact on non-participating aircraft. 

11. Weather minimums. 

12. Emergency procedures that will be in effect. 

If Petitioner intends to use the UAS to cover sporting events from the outside of the activity, 

coordination will be completed by contacting the FSDO prior to the event to ascertain the 

presence of any other unmanned activities. Flight activity will be conducted using the same 

operations plan as with any other ENG activity with particular attention to the avoidance of 

overflight of large concentrations of people. All of the concerns in the above twelve 

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subparagraphs have been or will be addressed in other portions of this exemption application. 

However, specific relief from this regulation is still necessary to ensure compliance with F ARs. 

13. CFR 91.151 (b) Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. 

CFR 91.151(b) states: 

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. 

The batteries that power the DJI PHANTOM 2 VISION have a mission life of approximately 45 

minutes. To meet the 20 minute reserve requirement, the airborne mission would be limited to 

approximately 25 minutes. Given the limitation of the proposed flight area during any ENG, a 

more liberal flight time is a reasonable request. The aircraft would never be further than 150 feet 

from the recovery area, literally representing seconds to land. In no case would the aircraft be 

operated with less than 25% battery life remaining. 

No night time operations are currently planned. 

14. CFR 91.203 (a) & (b) Civil Aircraft: Certifications required 

CFR 91.203 (a) & (b) states: 

(a) Except as provided in§ 91.715, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it has 

within it the following: 

(1) An appropriate and current airworthiness certificate. Each U.S. airworthiness certificate used 

to comply with this subparagraph (except a special flight permit, a copy of the applicable 

operations specifications issued under § 21.197( c) of this chapter, appropriate sections of the air 

carrier manual required by parts 121 and 135 of this chapter containing that portion of the 

operations specifications issued under §21.197( c), or an authorization under § 91.611) must have 

on it the registration number assigned to the aircraft under part 47 of this chapter. However, the 

airworthiness certificate need not have on it an assigned special identification number before 10 

days after that number is first affixed to the aircraft. A revised airworthiness certificate having on 

it an assigned special identification number, that has been affixed to an aircraft, may only be 

obtained upon application to an FAA Flight Standards district office. 

(2) An effective U.S. registration certificate issued to its owner or, for operation within the 

United States, the second copy of the Aircraft registration Application as provided for In 

§4 7. 31 (c), or a registration certification issued under the laws of a foreign country. 

(b) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless the airworthiness certificate required by 

paragraph (a) of this section or a special flight authorization issued under § 91.715 is displayed at 

the cabin or cockpit entrance so that it is legible to passengers or crew. 

The UAS to be employed has no cockpit or pilot and therefore has no ability to carry onboard 

any certification or registration documentation. 

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The equivalent level of safety will be achieved by keeping these documents with the pilot/team 

on the ground at the event. Previous precedence is resident in Exemptions 9565, 9665, 9789, 

9789A, 9797, 9797A, 9816A and 10700. 

15. CFR 91.405 (a); 407 (a) (1) (2); 409 (a) (2); & 417 (a) & (b) 

Maintenance 

These CFRs state: 

Each owner or operator of an aircraft-

(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; 

Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration. 

(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; 

and 

(2) The maintenance record entry required by§ 43.9 or§ 43.11, as applicable, of this chapter has 

been made. 

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-

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of 

this chapter. 

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 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. 

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(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. 

(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. 

These F ARs only concern aircraft with an airworthiness certificate and therefore would not apply 

in this situation. All maintenance and inspections will be conducted IA W the maintenance 

manual and operations manual. The ability for an almost immediate safe recovery and landing if 

a malfunction occurs and the eight engine configuration with the ability to fly with loss of thrust 

on 2 engines provides a comfortable operating envelope and ensures an equivalent level of 

safety. 

An equivalent level of safety will be achieved because Petitioner's small UAS is very limited in 

size and will carry a small payload consisting only of a camera, and operate only in restricted 

areas for limited periods of time. If mechanical issues arise, the UAS can land immediately and 

will never exceed an altitude of 400 feet AGL. Further, because there is no certified inspection 

facility for the DJI Phantom, it is impossible for Petitioner to comply with these regulations. 

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D. Public Interest Considerations - Part (d) 

Granting the exemption to Petitioner would allow the public to safely view breaking news from a 

dynamic and unprecedented aerial perspective. Petitioner has created a unique way to view news 

events that benefits the general public socially and economically. 

Section 333 refers to exemptions for UASs for commercial operations. Those operations could 

include a vast array of events such as electronic news gathering (ENG). Much like the movie 

industry, aerial news and traffic/weather information gathering is both useful and entertaining to 

the general public. The quick deployment and less restrictive weather constraints will create a 

safer environment, while delivering a superior and timelier product to the general public, 

providing near real time information for traffic, severe weather and crime scene avoidance 

considerations. 

E. Safety Considerations - Part (e) 

1. Introduction 

Petitioner is a licensed pilot. He has thus become familiar with both ground-based and aerial 

news photography over the course of several years. Petitioner has flown it for total of 25 hours 

over remote areas of the Texarkana metropolitan area, over remote locations in Northeast Texas 

and Southwest Arkansas for recreational purposes, exploring the potential and the limitations of 

its video subsystem. 

2. Type of Drone and Use 

The primary vehicle to be used will be the DJI Phanton 2 Vision+. While vehicles may be 

upgraded as new technological and safety advanced occur the bar for operation and safety will be 

set by DJI Phantom 2 Vision + and any new vehicles or versions will exceed the current safety 

and operational standards. No vehicle operated by Petitioner will be modified from the 

manufacturers design unless specifically directed by the same manufacturer. 

Petitioner has attached several documents that demonstrates the internal policies and procedures: 

1. TXKtoday.com Flight Operations; 

a. This manual outlines the specific safety precautions Petitioner would use for 

every flight specifically for electronic news gathering. 

2. DJI Pilot Training; 

a. This manual outlines the general safety precautions Petitioner would use for every 

flight. 

3. Phantom 2 User Manual; 

a. Petitioner follows the procedures for every flight for safe operation outlined in the 

DJI manual. 

4. Pre-Flight and Post-Flight Checklist; and 

a. Log file to keep track of pre-flight and post-flight procedures done for each flight. 

5. Inspire 1 Maintenance Manual V 1. 0. 

a. Even though this manual is made for a different UAS, this manual has universal 

qualities that transfer to the Phantom 2. 

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The primary use of the UAS is for use in and around the city of Texarkana, Texas during active 

news, traffic and weather events using very controlled conditions and operational procedures to 

provide robust safety buffers both vertically and horizontally to ensure personnel and property 

safety. These flights would only fly within 150 feet of the control vehicle with a dismounted 

pilot and safety team using an auto-pilot system that would control speed, vectoring and 

hovering. At no time would the vehicle fly directly over locally assembled crowds or over any 

ongoing fires or crime scenes. The launch and recovery point would be cordoned off by the 

safety team in coordination with law enforcement and/or first response units. Approval of this 

exemption would help to prove the safe concept of UAS activity while conducting electronic 

news gather (ENG) during active news, weather or traffic events in a major metropolitan 

environment with safety controls to provide proactive risk management that is technically within 

the National Airspace System, but realistically segregated well below any other air traffic and 

well clear of the Texarkana Airport Class D airspace (outside the lateral confines). In addition, 

enhanced safety is achieved by using an unmanned aircraft that does not carry passengers or 

crew and does not carry flammable fuel. 

3. Drone Specifications 

The UAS proposed to be operated by the Petitioner weighs less than 55 lbs. fully loaded, carries 

neither a pilot nor passenger, carries no explosive materials or flammable liquid fuels, and 

operates exclusively within a secured area as outlined in the operator's manual. Unlike other 

civil aircraft, operations under this exemption will be tightly controlled and monitored by both 

the operator, pursuant to the criteria in the operator's manual, and under the requirements and in 

compliance with local public safety requirements, to provide security for the area of operation as 

is now done with conventional filming. The FAA will have advance notice of all operations and 

has issued the aforementioned list of conditions and limitations. These safety enhancements, 

which already apply to civil aircraft operated in connection with motion picture and television 

production, provide a greater degree of safety to the public and property owners than 

conventional operations. Lastly, application of these same criteria demonstrates that there is no 

credible threat to national security posed by the UAS, due to its size, speed of operation, location 

of operation, lack of explosive materials or flammable liquid fuels, and inability to carry a 

substantial external load. 

The inherent safety features, sophistication, programmability, GPS navigation, return home 

capability, airport vicinity no-fly feature and restricted altitude feature, as well as differentiating 

radio frequency (rf) for aircraft controller/receiver and for the camera make this a much safer 

UAS for the purposes of this petition. This is a hobby grade radio controlled UAS that has the 

capacity for software upgrades. It is light, less than 3 pounds including battery and camera. 

Incorporated into the programming of the Phantom is an automatic return home feature· that 

automatically directs the craft back to point of take off should communication with the 

transmitter be lost. The Phantom has a cruising speed of 15 knots, with a maximum speed of 29 

knots. Maximum flight time is 25 minutes. Gross weight is 2.86 pounds. 

The Phantom has an additional communication link between the camera and craft on a different 

rf for a smart phone connection. Allowing the operator or Pilot In Command (PIC) to monitor 

battery level, altitude (AGL), distance from PIC, camera imagery, and control camera angle. The 

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DJI Phantom 2 Vision +'s 2.4 ghz transmitter/controller/receiver rffor managing flight with a 5.8 

ghz rf transmitter/receiver for video/photography functions eliminates possible rf conflict. 

The software for the Phantom allows the operator or PIC to set maximum altitude AGL for each 

flight, allowing customization of flights to no higher than 100 feet, 150 feet, or 250 feet AGL as 

an examples. The 400 foot maximum AGL can be programmed into the UAS's software preflight to insure compliance with FAA standards. Adding to the safety capabilities of this UAS. 

This UAS is programmed to remain in poFsition when controls are released. Maintaining altitude 

and GPS location. 

The Phantom has an altitude and radar monitoring function that allows the operator more precise 

determination of height, direction of flight and distance from the operator PIC. The operator or 

PIC can monitor GPS lock status while UAS is in flight, with the ability to anticipate loss of GPS 

locking so the operator or PIC can land the UAS as a precaution. 

The Phantom has many inherent safety features, including sophistication, programmability, GPS 

navigation, return home capability, airport vicinity no-fly feature and restricted altitude feature, 

as well as differentiating radio frequency (rf) for aircraft controller/receiver and for the camera 

make this a much safer UAS for the purposes of this petition. 

This is a hobby grade radio controlled UAS that has the capacity for software upgrades. It is 

light, less than 3 pounds including battery and camera. Incorporated into the programming of the 

Phantom is an automatic return home feature that automatically directs the craft back to point of 

take off should communication with the transmitter be lost. The Phantom has a cruising speed of 

15 knots, with a maximum speed of 29 knots. Maximum flight time is 25 minutes. Gross weight 

is 2. 86 pounds. 

The Phantom has an additional communication link between the camera and craft on a different 

rf for a smart phone connection. Allowing the operator or Pilot In Command (PIC) to monitor 

battery level, altitude (AGL), and distance from PIC, camera imagery, and control camera angle. 

The Best explanation of the Phantom's sophistication and capabilities can be observed through a 

video explanation of an earlier model that was predecessor to the Phantom 2 Vision + through 

link http://youtu.be/3mqi-WBRKmE. The Phantom 2 Vision+ maintains all capabilities defined 

in the video. 

4. Conditions and Limitations 

The following conditions and limitations, to which Petitioner agrees to be bound, provide for at 

least an equivalent level of safety to operations under the current regulatory scheme. The 

conditions and limitations proposed for the commercial operation of the UAS owned and 

operated by Petitioner are as follows: 

1. The UAS will weigh less than fifteen pounds, including payload. 

2. Flights will operate at speeds of less than 40 knots 

3. Maximum total flight time for each operational flight will be 25 minutes or less. 

4. Flight time, date, and location will be recording before and after each operation. 

5. Flights will be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet AGL. 

14 
6. Operations will occur during normal Visual Flight Rule Meteorological 

Conditions 

7. UAS Pilot will be Pilot in Command (PIC). 

8. Minimum crew for each operation will consist of the PIC who will keep the UAS 

within his visual line of sight at all times. One or more Visual Observers may also 

be present for operations, if determined necessary by the PIC. 

9. The PIC will be trained in flight operations and safety procedures as detailed in 

the submitted flight operations and procedures manual. 

10. The PIC will hold at least a current third-class medical certificate. 

11. Notification to stakeholders will be delivered prior to the scheduled flight 

operations. Stakeholders will be identified in accordance with the public 

information specifications set forth by the public entity for each project. 

Notification may be provided on the flyers distributed to notify such stakeholders 

of the project start. 

12. The UAS will be programmed to return to a pre-determined location within the 

secure perimeter and land should the UAS lose communications or GPS signal. 

13. The PIC will complete a customized UAS flight course, to be commissioned and 

designed by a professional instructor. 

14. Operations will not take place over densely populated areas or within five miles 

of an airport. The UAS will not be operated by the PIC from a moving vehicle. 

15. Prior to proposed operations, the PIC will have completed UAS training described 

above and will have logged at least one successful takeoff and landing in the 

proceeding 90 days with the UAS to be used in the proposed operations in order 

to ensure that the UAS is in good operating condition. 

16. The PIC will land the UAS prior to battery levels dropping below the 

manufactures' recommended minimum level for safe operations. 

17. An integrated Global Positioning System (GPS) on the UAS that allows the UAS 

to hover and land safely if communication with remote control pilot is lost will be 

initiated prior to all operations. 

Because Petitioner plans to use this small aircraft in low-speed, low-altitude operations only 

under normal weather conditions within the VLOS of the pilot, the operation of the aircraft by 

Petitioner in the National Airspace System will not pose a threat to public safety and should be 

exempted from the regulations listed above. 

5. Operators and Training 

All UAS pilots being employed by TXKtoday.com for this mission will have a FAA Commercial 

Pilot Certificate and a FAA medical certificate with additional experience in unmanned aircraft 

operations. Pilots will be well trained in areas of both normal and abnormal operations equipped 

with checklists and operations and maintenance manuals to be able to contend with any scenario. 

After extensive range testing and pilot training, the UAS PIC will perform "dry-runs" to simulate 

and practice actual news events and situations. To help prepare for actual flight and news 

gathering with a UAS, the PIC would observe conditions and scenarios where future operations 

might take place. This would give the PIC a feel for the "cadence" of an active news event to 

allow them to be able to plan timing and coordination issues. Unlike other uses for UASs, these 

flights would be mostly shorter in length, obviating the need for a backup pilot. The designated 

15 
safety observer would help to provide greater situational awareness for the PIC in order maintain 

alertness and vigil at all times. 

6. Conclusion 

This is an opportunity to use highly dependable, multiredundant unmanned aircraft in a major 

metropolitan area, but to do so with stringent controls, pervasive risk management and detailed 

mitigation strategies to ensure that the public is not at any time exposed to unsafe conditions. 

Extensive range testing, "dry-run" testing under benign conditions and simulated emergencies 

will demonstrate that this activity can be accomplished without hazard to the general public. The 

rotorcraft being proposed for this operation has redundancy in every conceivable area: thrust, 

communications, and electrical power for both the aircraft itself and the supporting system. Eight 

engines powered by two separate 21,000 mAh batteries and a data link system with "fly home" 

capability ensure that at no time will the aircraft not be able to land safely should that need arise. 

Preplotted waypoints using Geographic Instrument System coordinates and auto-pilot "fly to" 

commands provide extremely precise navigation. A Safety Management System will be 

employed and will address such issues as environmental impact (noise and hazardous material) 

and coordination with local Emergency Services/Incident Management personnel to include: 

Fire fighting 

• Medical response 

• Incident investigation 

These capabilities, in total, provide a level of safety that should be satisfactory to the FAA and 

general public. 

In view of the beneficial advantages to public safety, we respectfully submit our Section 333 

exemption request. 

F. Summary for Federal Register- Part (f) 

Subsection (f) requests that the following information is included in the exemption application: 

1. The rule from which you seek the exemption~ and 

2. A brief description of the nature of the exemption you seek; 

Square World Media, LLC (dba TXKtoday.com) seeks relief from the following rules: 14 CFR 

Part 21, Subpart H- Airworthiness Certificates, 14 CFR 45.23 (b),14 CFR 61.113, (a) & (b), 14 

CFR 91.7 (a), 14 CFR 91.9 (b) (2), 14 CFR 91.103 (b), 14 CFR 109, 14 CFR 91.119, 14 CFR 

91.113, 14 CFR 91.121, 14 CFR 91.145 (b), 14 CFR 91.151, 14 CFR 91.203 (a) & (b), 14 CFR 

91.405 (a)~ 407 (a) (1); 409 (a); 417 (a) & (b), 14 CFR407, 14 CFR409, 14 CFR417, NOTAM 

9/5151 to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit Square World 

Media, LLC (dba TXKtoday.com) to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the 

commercial purpose of conduct aerial photography for TXKtoday.com for the purpose of 

electronic news gathering ("ENG") in and around Texarkana, Texas. 

16 
G. Additional Information, Views or Arguments - Part (g) 

Petitioner does not have any "additional information, views, or arguments" to add to this 

exemption application. 

H. Privileges - Part (h) 

Petitioner does not request any privileges to add to this exemption application. 

VI. Conclusion 

For the foregoing reasons, the regulatory exemptions requested herein should be granted and 

Petitioner should be permitted to conduct small U AS operations for the purpose of Electronic 

News Gathering. 

Respectfully Submitted, 

Randle Smolarz 

Counsel for Petitioner 

850 Barkman Creek Rd 

Hooks, TX 75561 

17 
FLIGHT OPERATIONS 

Square World Media, LLC (dba TXKtoday.com) 

I. Flight Operations Introduction 

The designated On-Scene Lead (OSL) is the event pilot-in-command and is responsible for the 

safe employment of the Electronic News Gathering Unmanned Aerial System (ENGUAS) that is 

assigned to the operation. He/she will be responsible for all operations utilizing the ENGUAS to 

include establishing a safe operating zone, coordination with local law enforcement/first 

responders, de-confliction with other airborne assets, both manned and unmanned and any other 

contingencies that might present themselves. The initial composition of this team beyond this 

minimum will be determined by TXKtoday.com, but independently overseen by the 

TXKtoday.com management team. Specifically, the owner of TXKtoday.com will perform this 

oversight function. He will also serve as the Chief Pilot until indigenous TXKtoday.com 

personnel have accrued enough experience to safely transition. Currently, this position is held 

by: 

Rayfield "Field" William Walsh III 

TXKtoday.com 

5502 Cowhom Creek Rd, Ste B 

Texarkana, TX 75503 

Title: ChiefPilot and Owner of Square World Media, LCC (dba TXKtoday.com) 

Cell: (903) 280-8051 

Email: field@txktoday .com 

II. Flight Operations Functional Areas 

A. Chief Pilot 

The CP is responsible to the FAA for all operations and ensuring those operations are conducted 

using the procedures outlined here and all other documents included and submitted for this 333 

exemption. All flights and procedures for ground operations of installed engines and/or 

propeller(s), engaging of rotors, and movement of UAS aircraft conducted by the contractor are 

subject to final approval by the CP. The team shall prepare and maintain specific written 

procedures, separate and distinct from industrial or quality procedures that describe generic 

aircraft flight and ground operations at all ENG events. If TXKtoday.com references existing 

company procedures, operating instructions, etc., in these procedures, the referenced 

document(s) must be readily available for review and become part of the FAA 333 exemption 

approval process. 

B. Aviation Risk Management 

As per FederalAviation Administration (FAA) Orders 8900 and 8130, all UAS operations will 

adhere to the Safety Management System (SMS) process as required in manned aircraft 

operations. Personnel will use Safety Risk Management (SRM) principles outlined in the current 

editions of FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 120-92-Safety Management Systems for Aviation 

Service Providers and FAA Order 8040.4A-Safety Risk Management Policy. These FAA 

policies maintain or improve the safety of the National Airspace System (NAS) by identifying 

1 
safety risks, hazards, and mitigations associated with proposed UAS operations. All flight 

operations conducted by TXKtoday.com fall under the purview of the FAA and the Flight 

Operations CP will implement and manage the SRM program in concert with FAA risk 

management policy. Aviation Risk Management will also make initial and subsequent safety risk 

and maturity determinations to ensure compliance by all team members at all associated ENG 

events. 

C. Airspace 

TXKtoday.com will use all means available to notify NAS (National Airspace System) partners 

(FAA, law enforcement, first responders, other airspace users, etc.) that there is a potential ENG 

event and that subsequent employment of an ENGUAS will be imminent. All technology 

available (radios, telephonic, email, social media) will be considered to ensure any potential 

airspace users in close proximity to the ongoing event are aware that there will be an unmanned 

TXKtoday.com airborne asset in the area. Upon arrival on the launch sight, the OSLand safety 

observer will quickly ascertain the operating environment and follow up prior coordination with 

any other aforementioned stakeholders prior to initial launch of the ENGUAS. Other risk factors 

such as weather, onlookers, immediate obstructions to flight (trees, power lines, construction 

equipment, etc.) will be identified and mitigated. The maximum line of sight distance from the 

controlling pilot to the ENGUAS is 150 feet. The OSL will determine what geographical and/or 

electronic metrics can be employed to help determine the maximum line-of-sight distance 

restriction. This can be ascertained by using assets such as laser range finders, known physical 

distances and heights such as the length of the city block or height of utility poles. Once there is 

a determination that a safe launch can be made and the ENGUAS is airborne, the OSL will 

closely monitor the time of flight, flight track, changing local conditions (weather, airspace 

saturation, crowd size and disposition, etc.) and continually assess any possible need to modify 

or discontinue operations in the interest of safety. Early and accurate planning of the on-site 

requirements to accommodate the air and ground footprint is critical to both planning and 

execution. All team members will be an integral part of the Airspace Management processes and 

must be well versed in flight, ground, and ENGUAS operations. The OSL and his team will 

conduct a flight readiness and operational risk management review via checklists enroute to 

every event. 

D. Pilots, Camera Operators and Safety observers 

Chief Pilot, OSLs, Camera Operators and Safety observers and attached reporters are to provide 

a superior level of cooperation with all stakeholders on the scene, always conscious of safety 

first. If at any time, a determination is made that the safest action is to discontinue flight 

operations due to a safety issue, the OSL will not hesitate to recall the ENGUAS and re-evaluate 

the on-scene conditions. The TXKtoday.com Team will work directly with other on-scene 

stakeholders and the FAA local offices to ensure all FAA, procedures, regulations, and paper 

work are in full compliance. Additionally, our Team will provide services well beyond 

regulatory compliance as we seek to provide a "concierge" level" of safety to meet safety 

objectives in all phases of any project/event. All team members will be well versed in basic 

project management skill sets and familiar with UAS/Aviation industry to support ENG for all 

events. The designated pilot will, at a minimum, be a rated Pilot with no less than 200 manned 

flight hours and an additional 200 UAS hours. 

2 
TXI(TODA Y'S OPERATING PROCEDURES 

I. Overview for Electronic News Gathering 

The TXKtoday's Team, led by the CP shall prepare and maintain specific written Procedures, 

separate and distinct from industrial or quality procedures that describe aircraft flight and ground 

operations ENG events supported. If TXKtoday.com references existing company procedures, 

operating instructions, etc., in these procedures, the referenced document(s) shall be made 

readily available for review and become part of the FAA 333 exemption approval process. The 

Procedures shall: 

1. Provide specific guidance describing activities and requirements for all ENGUAS flight 

activities. All provisions pertaining to safety, and flight and ground operations applicable 

to all aircraft for each specific event will be clearly defined. 

2. Describe in detail how the team ensures that individuals perform only duties they are 

qualified and authorized to perform. 

3. Provide an overview of proposed operations plan including, but not limited to: 

a. Aircraft system to be Utilized 

b. Scope of flight operations 

c. Communications support requirements 

d. Emergency procedures- requirements (Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting, Traffic 

control, etc.) 

e. Launch/Recovery requirements and procedures 

f. Lost communications and lost linlc procedures 

g. Generic on-scene safety outline, including safety observer and pre-post flight 

brief with all applicable staff, production personnel and flight crew. Petitioner 

should provide any recent FAA monthly status reports including any "offnominal" events. Copies of PIC and visual observers' training hours/records may 

be requested at any time. 

4. Provide Operational Requirements such as ownership information; aircraft description 

(performance specifications and speed, altitude, arrival and take off, movement and 

camera operations); program purpose for which the aircraft will be used; anticipated 

hours, time of ground tests/flights and days for use; and areas over which the flights are 

to be conducted and address of base operation. 

5. Provide a narrative (i.e.- Flight Plan and parameters for operation) summarizing overall 

experience as well as describing equipment and the various specific modes of operation, 

including routes and altitudes to be flown. Narrative will also include details for exit 

criteria. Flight Plan must also include Lost Link procedures and other emergency 

procedures. 

II. Airport and Equivalent Level of Safety 

Petitioner proposes that the exemption requested herein apply to civil aircraft that have the 

characteristics and that operate with the limitations listed herein. These limitations provide for at 

least an equivalent or even higher level of safety to operations under the current regulatory 

structure because the proposed operations represent a safety enhancement to the already safe 

movie and television filming operations conducted with conventional aircraft. 

3 
These limitations and conditions, taken directly from the seven exemptions granted to film 

companies (Exemption #'s 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080), Vision Pictures, 

LLC agrees to be bound when conducting commercial UA operations. These limitations have 

already been written and incorporated into the Operating Manual. The list of limitations and 

conditions include the following: 

1. The UA weighs less than 55 pounds, including batteries and camera gimbal. Operations 

requested in this petition for exemption are limited to the following aircraft described in 

the proprietary operator's manual for the DJI Phantom. Proposed operations of any other 

UA will require a new petition or an amendment. 

2. The UAS shall not be flown at a speed exceeding a ground speed of 50 knots. 

3. Flights must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level 

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

reported to ATC must be in feet AGL. 

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

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

corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC's FAA-issued medical certificate. 

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

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

PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. 

6. The operator's manual shall be maintained and made available to the Administrator upon 

request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in this exemption 

and the procedures outlined in the operator's manual, the conditions and limitations 

herein take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the 

procedures as outlined in its operator's manual. The operator may update or revise its 

operator's manual. 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. If 

the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis of this 

exemption, then the operator must petition for amendment to their exemption. The FAA's 

UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding updates 

or revisions to the operator's manual. 

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

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

aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed 

and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station 

shall be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations shall be 

properly documented in the aircraft records. 

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

flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a 

functional test flight in accordance with the operator's manual. The PIC who conducts the 

functional test flight must make an entry in the UAS aircraft records of the flight. The 

requirements and procedures for a functional test flight and aircraft record entry are 

included in the operator's manual. 

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

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

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

requirements has been established and included in the operator's manual. 

4 
10. The Pilot In Command (PIC) shall possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a 

current third-class medical certificate. The PIC must also meet the flight review 

requirements specified in 14 C.P.R. § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on 

his/her pilot certificate. 

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

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

C.P.R. § 61.51 (b), a minimum of 200 flight cycles and 25 hours of total time as a UAS 

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

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

compliance with applicable regulations may satisfy this requirement. Training, 

proficiency, and experience-building flights can also be conducted under this grant of 

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

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

are considered non-participants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate 

distance from non-participants in accordance with 14 C.P.R. § 91.119. 12. Prior to 

operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming, the PIC must have 

accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 C.P.R. § 61.51 (b), a minimum 

of five hours as UAS pilot operating the make and model of UAS to be utilized for 

operations under the exemption and three take-offs and three landings in the preceding 90 

days. During training, proficiency, experience-building, and take-off and landing 

currency flights all persons not essential for flight operations are considered 

nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from 

nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 13. Prior to operations conducted 

for the purpose of motion picture filming, the PIC and visual observer (VO) must have 

successfully completed a qualification process, as outlined in the operator's manual. The 

test has been developed by the operator and shall be implemented by a qualified person 

designated at the sole discretion of the operator. A record of completion of this 

qualification process must be documented and made available to the Administrator upon 

request. 

1. Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming, a flight 

demonstration, administered by an operator-approved and qualified pilot must be 

successfully completed and documented. This documentation must be available for 

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

qualifications have been developed by the operator, the petitioner will conduct these tests 

in accordance with the operator's manual. 

2. The UA may not be operated directly over any person, except authorized and consenting 

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

surface in the event of a UAS failure or emergency. 

3. Regarding the distance from participating persons, the operator's manual has safety 

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

persons must be essential to the closed-set film operations. Because these procedures are 

specific to participating persons, no further FSDO or Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) 

approval is necessary for reductions to the distances specified in the petitioner's manuals. 

This is consistent with the manned aircraft procedures described in FAA Order 8900.1, 

V3, C8, S 1 Issue a Certificate of Waiver for Motion Picture and Television Filming. 

4. Regarding distance from non-participating persons, the operator must ensure that no 

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

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

5 
200 feet if it would not adversely affect safety and the Administrator has approved it. For 

example, an equivalent level of safety may be determined by an aviation safety 

inspector's evaluation of the filming production area to note terrain features, obstructions, 

buildings, safety barriers, etc. Such barriers may protect non-participating persons 

(observers, the public, news media, etc.) from debris in the event of an accident. This is 

also consistent with the same FAA Order 8900.1, V3, C8, S 1. 

5. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA must return to a 

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

accordance with the operator's manual. 

6. The UA must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in 

accordance with the operator's manual. 

7. Each UA operation must be completed within 30 minutes flight time or with 25% battery 

power remaining, whichever occurs first. 

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

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

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

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

operation. 

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

number, registered in accordance with 14 C.P.R. part 47, and have identification 

(NNumber) markings in accordance with 14 C.P.R. part 45, subpart C. Markings must be 

as large as practicable. 

10. The operator has developed procedures to document and maintain a record of the UA 

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

component parts, and the total time in service of the UA. 

11. Each UA must comply with all manufacturer Safety Bulletins and firmware updates. 

12. The operator has developed UA technician qualification criteria and they are included in 

the operator's manual. 

13. The preflight inspection accounts for all discrepancies, i.e. inoperable components, items, 

or equipment, not covered in the relevant preflight inspection sections of the operator's 

manual. 

14. The radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UA complies with the 

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight 

agency requirements. 

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

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

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

concurrence of the FSDO. The requirements for a plan of activities and a sample form are 

in the operator's manual. 

16. The documents required under 14 C.P.R. § 91.9 and § 91.203 must be available to the 

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

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

upon request. 

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

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

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

6 
18. U A operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C .F .R. § 1.1. All 

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

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

19. The UA cannot be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle. 

20. 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. 

21. The UA may not operate in Class B, C, or D airspace without written approval from the 

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

nontowered airport 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. 

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

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

the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) within 24 

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

per instn1ctions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov. Further flight 

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

by AFS-80 and authorization to resume operations is provided. 

Unless otherwise specified by the Administrator, the PIC, and operator must comply with all 

applicable parts of 14 C.P.R. including, but not limited to, parts 45, 47, 61, and 91 

III. Risk Assessment 

During the initial standup ofENGUAS activity pre-planning, the CP's staff and UAS flight crew 

identify and assess possible hazards consistent with FAA Safety Risk Management process. 

Based on this preplanning the team will create a concise, yet exhaustive Risk Management 

worksheet/checklist that is adaptable and scalable for all potential ENG events. The team will 

complete Risk Management worksheets/checklists either enroute to the scene or after arrival on 

the scene before each event. These tools will be made available to· any FAA representative 

having a "need" for review. All Risk Assessments will be reviewed by event personnel 

leadership and approved for operation by the CP. 

IV. Changes 

All proposed changes shall be submitted to the CP in writing. Approved changes shall be 

incorporated into all copies of the Procedures. Changes are not in effect until the CP approves 

them. 

V. Crewmember Approval 

All crewmembers must be approved as a requisite step for indemnification under the TXKtoday 

Risks Clause. The CP shall ensure that the appropriate numbers of crewmembers are authorized 

and that programs include sufficient flying time for currency in accordance with the Mission 

Assurance Risk Assessment. The CP shall not approve any crewmelnber until the procedures 

7 
have been approved and that crew member has demonstrated a complete and thorough 

understanding. 

VI. Ground Operations 

Ground Operations are aircraft operations without intent for flight. Specific operations include, 

but are not limited to: 

1. Aircraft maintenance 

2. Overhaul Modification Repair Ground Test 

3. Subsystem warm-up/checkout 

4. Spectrum De-confliction Ground Test 

5. Engine run or other operation of installed engmes and propeller(s) or rotor(s), as 

appropriate 

6. Preflight/post flight 

7. Operation of associated aerospace ground support equipment 

8. Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) operations and Training 

9. Operation of any Ground Test Vehicle (GTV) 

The CP shall not approve any ground operations until the procedures have been approved. 

VII. Flight Approval 

The CP shall not approve any flight until the procedures have been approved. CP approval is 

required for all flights using the TXKtoday.com designation and authorities. Flight approvals are 

requested using real time email/telephone requests to the CP. In the dynamic world of news 

gathering, this will often be completed while enroute to the news event. Any verbal or email 

approval will suffice for this requirement. This allows the CP to evaluate the effects of all the 

factors (such as aircraft condition, weather, aircrew life stressors, etc.) that influence flight 

effectiveness and safety. CPs shall not authorize operations that are outside the scope of the 

exemption requirements. Approval of operations not allowed by this exemption could create 

serious liability issues. 

VIII. Assumptions and Restrictions for all ENG Emergency Events 

• During emergency operations all team members will focus exclusively on the safe 

recovery of the DJI Phanton1. Upon emergency flight termination, no additional DJI 

Phantom's will be launched until a complete understanding of what caused the 

malfunction is determined. 

• All event law enforcement and First ·Responders will be briefed on the basic CONOPS of 

the DJI Phantom and what 'they can do to support Petitioner CP in the event of an 

emergency. 

• When possible all Emergencies will be terminated at the Launch and Recovery location. 

IX. Event DJI Phantom CONOPs 

1. Once the Pilot has completed,all ground ops, the pilot will check in with the CP who will 

provide an "all clear for launch". 

8 
2. The Pilot will then verify good communications with his team, Camera Operator first, 

(Camera operator's "all clear for launch" means his ground checks are complete, he has 

verified camera operation and zoom functionality), then the safety observer. At this point 

the pilot will launch the DJI Phantom from the Launch and Recovery location vertically 

and announce the initial operating altitude and launch time to the crew. Upon reaching 

altitude, the Pilot will announce the initial hover point. 

3. The safety observer should verify the time and that the initial operating area is clear. If at 

any point the safety observer realize the area isn't clear, he/she should announce this fact 

and make a recommendation to the pilot of a known clear area. The preferred method is 

to return to the last known clear point for the pilot. For example: "pilot, SAFETY 

OBSERVER, initial hover point isn't clear, recommend displacing xxx feet left/right." 

The pilot will announce his understanding and state his intentions. For example: "Copy 

SAFETY OBSERVER, I'll hold at xxx, and Camera Operator please plan to capture 

event from that area. The Camera Operator will acknowledge the Pilots instructions as he 

was the last crew member directed. For example, "Camera Operator (CO) confirms xxx 

area for initial broadcast. Then the SAFETY OBSERVER will confirm the pilots last 

instructions. "SAFETY OBSERVER copies xxx for initial broadcast. 

4. The team will continue to capture the news in this manner throughout the event. 

5. There are several mandatory calls from all team members and SAFETY OBSERVER 

will be responsible to initiate these safety checks. They are: 

a. Every 5 minutes from launch time a battery check until recovery 

b. Every 5 minutes from launch time a position accuracy check 

c. Every 5 minutes from launch time an altitude validation check 

1. For example: at 1605L the SAFETY OBSERVER will say: "Pilot, 

SAFETY OBSERVER safety check" 

11. At this point all crew members will verify that the position and altitude 

appears reasonable with what has been directed and additionally the pilot 

will verify the remaining battery duration. Then, all crew members will 

acknowledge with the pilot being first as he was the last directed crew 

position. For example: "Crew, Pilot, good safety check with battery 

remaining 76%" Then, "CO, good safety check" then "SAFETY 

OBSERVER good safety check 

6. All crew members will acknowledge and verify critical information during the ENG 

event via professional Crew Resource Management (CRM). When the CP (or designated 

representative), who is in constant contact with the production team, passes information, 

the team will acknowledge and offer any concise updates or suggestions. For example: 

the CP will relay anytime the team is showing live coverage. For example: "Pilot, CP, 

you're live," then, "pilot, copies" then "CO copies" Then "SAFETY OBSERVER 

copies." 

9 
P ANT M PIL T TRAINI I E 

Earning Your Stripes 

Learn tvlore: www.dji.com 
This product is not suitable for people under the age of 18. Please carefully read the ··Quick 

Start Guide", ~~User Guide", disclaimer, and fully watch the ~~Quick Start Videos" before 

using the PHANTOM. Users should make every effort to fly regularly in order to improve 

their flight skills as an advanced level pilot ( ) . Please fly safely and responsibly. 

Please follow these guidelines prior to flying your Phantom: 

turn on the Remote Controller prior to turning on the Phantom. 

Toggle SL S2 to the top. 

Be sure there are no distractions when you're flying. 

When starting your training, be sure you are in a very large open area. Be aware of your 

surroundings. Always fly in areas void of obstacles and away from traffic and people. 

Before actually taking off, be sure you have calibrated the compass and you have full 

GPS satellite reception (Slow Continuous Green Flashing). 

Never fly over 400 feet. 

During training, stay behind your imaginary barrier and never fly behind yourself. 

When in doubt, gently pull down on the throttle stick and land. 

DO NOT PANIC. 

The aircraft camera should face AWAY fro.m the pilot before takeoff. 

CAUTION 

DO NOT fly the Phantom within a radius of 2 meters. 

FORBIDDEN 

DO NOT touch the propellers after the Phantom has been started. 

NO TOUCH 
Take off and land with battery facing you. 

Hover in one spot keeping battery facing you, make 

sure to control Left/Right/Forward/Back movement. 

Rotate left, rotate right but try to keep the battery 

pointed at yourself. 
Slowly fly forward/back/left/right with back of 

Phantom pointed at yourself. 

Fly forward to a spot 20~30 feet away. 

Then fly back keeping the battery pointed at yourself. 

Mark a spot (B) on the ground lOft away from the Phantom's 

take off point. Hover and fly towards that spot and land at 

the spot (B). Then go back into a hover and bring the Phantom 

back to its original position (A) and land again. 

8 

\ 

\ \ \ \0 \ \ 

8 \ \ \ \ 

\ 

A 
Fly left lOft away from your take-off point, then fly right 

lOft from your take-off point all while keeping battery 

pointed at yourself. 

3 meters 3 meters 

Then, while keeping the camera pointed forward, 

fly a 4 point square box formation going clockwise. 

Be sure to be in control and stop and hover in place 

at each point before proceeding to the next point. 

I 

I 

I 

I 

\ 

\ 

\ 

\ 

\ 

- - -· - ,_ - - - ,_ - ---· - - = - - - - - - -· 

Do the same· as above but fly the 4 point box formation 

counter-clockwise. Be sure to be in control and stop 

and hover in place at each point before proceeding 

to the next point. 

J 

I 

I 

I 

I 

~ 

I 

I , 

I 

I 
In a hover, starting with the battery pointed at yourself, 

rotate 360 degrees clockwise. 

In a hover, starting with the battery pointed at yourself, 

rotate 360 degrees counter-clockwise. 

Starting with the battery pointed at yourself, go into a hover. 

Then rotate the Phantom 90 degrees facing left, and fly a 4 

point square box formation going clockwise. Be sure to be in 

control and stop and hover in place at each point before 

proceeding to the next point. 

, 

, 

, 

\ 

\ 

\ 

\ 

\ 

' '\ 

\ 
Starting with the battery pointed at yourself, go into a hover. 

Then rotate the Phantom 90 degrees facing right, and fly a 4 

point square box formation going counter-clockwise. 

Be sure to be in control and stop and hover in place at each 

point before proceeding to the next point. 

I 

I 

I 

I 

I 

®~ 

I 

I 

... 

I 

I 

r 

= - - ------ -· 

(f).®~ \\\1------¥1/ 

With the battery pointed at yourself, fly a circle. Try to 

keep the altitude and also the circle as uniform as possible. 

l'l"lp'&IIC-"""I'D_t::::!I_...,.!Elii'I!!OI'ot::::~..,. 

........ 

Hover with the camera pointed at yourself and try to keep 

the Phantom in one place. 
' 

Fly a circle and keep the camera pointed towards you. 

Be sure to keep the altitude the same and the circle as 

uniform as possible . 

................. ------Em- .... __ ~ ... ...... 

' ........ It----· ------

Fly a 4 point square box clockwise while keeping the camera 

facing in your direction. 

Fly a 4 point square box counter-clockwise while keeping 

the camera facing in your direction. 

I 

I 

I 

I 

\ 

\ 

\ 

8 

<ID 
' .. 

Fly a 4 point square box clockwise and rotate the 

phantom in the direction of travel. 

I 

I 

,' ~ ', -~~------- ~ -- - ~ = ~ -- - =• 

Fly a circle counter-clockwise and keep the camera pointed 

in the direction of travel. Be sure to keep the altitude the 

same and the circle as uniform as possible. 

Fly a circle counter-clockwise with the camera pointed at the 

center of the circle. Be sure to keep the altitude the same 

and the circle as uniform as possible . 

... -- ...... ...... 
... 

Fly a figure 8 without rotating the Phantom. Be sure to keep 

the altitude the same and the circle as uniform as possible . 

.,. ...... ....,._ .. I!Eil_ ............... , ..... ..,.-.,el 

... \ 

I 

Fly a Figure 8 with the camera of the Phantom pointed in the 

direction of travel. Be sure to keep the altitude the same and 

the circle as uniform as possible. 

• ""' ... ----- 1::::3 m:::ll ISl ""'""" """' ..... ~ """' Ill!='-

... ...... 

Fly Figure 8 patterns while experimenting with different orientations. 

For example, camera always pointed in a given direction or opposite/ 

left/right the direction of travel, etc. Be sure to keep the altitude the 

same and the circle as uniform as possible . 

........ 

... \ 

I 
Be sure you are in a large open area. Before you take off, 

make sure you have a good GPS lock by ensuring your LED 

indicators are flashing Green. Fly the Phantom at least 50ft 

away from your take off point. Turn off the Remote Controller. 

The Phantom will enteritIs failsafe Return-To-Home tv1ode. 

Let the Phantom finish it Is routine and land itself within 2 meters 

of the take off point. 

15 meters 

• 

([]) 

0@ 

land Mrn,a~ 

Be sure you are in a large open area. Before you take off, make 

sure you have a good GPS lock by ensuring your LED indicators 

are flashing Green. Fly the Phantom 50ft away from your take 

off point. Turn off the Remote Controller. The Phantom will 

enter it Is failsafe Return-To-Home tv1ode. When the Phantom 

is returning home, you can intercept RTH tv1ode by switching 

the Sl Switch from the top position to the middle or lower 

position, then continue flying the Phantom. 

~meters 

• 
www.dji.com 
For PHANTOM 2 Main Controller Firmware version Vl.06 

& PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software version Vl.08 

& PHANTOM RC Assistant Software version Vl.O 

December 16, 2013 Revision 

Congratulations on purchasing your new DJI product. Please thoroughly read the entire contents of this manual to 

fully use and understand the product. 

It is advised that you regularly check the PHANTOM 2 's product page at which is updated on a 

regular basis. This will provide services such as product information, technical updates and manual corrections. Due 

to any unforeseen changes or product upgrades, the information contained within this manual is subject to change 

without notice. 

DJI and PHANTOM 2 are registered trademarks of DJI. Names of product, brand, etc., appearing in this manual are 

trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owner companies. This product and manual are copy 

righted by DJI with all rights reserved. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your product, please contact your dealer or DJI Customer Service. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.ll 
CONTENT ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2 

IN THE BOX ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 3 

REQUIRED ITEMS .................................................................................................................................................................................. 3 

SYMBOL LEGEND ................................................................................................................................................................................. 3 

1. PHANTOM 2 AIRCRAFT ................................................................................................................................................................. 4 

1.1 BUILT-IN FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................................................................. 4 

1.2 CONNECTIONS WITH OTHER DJI PRODUCTS ........................................................................................................................................ 4 

1.3 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................................................. 7 

1.4 NOTES FOR PHANTOM2 USING WITH OTHER DJI PRODUCTS ....................................................................................................... 8 

2 PROPELLERS ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 

2.1 ASSEMBLy ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 

2.2 DISASSEMBLy ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 

2.3 NOTES ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 

3 REMOTE CONTROLLER ............................................................................................................................................................... 10 

3.1 POWER ON THE REMOTE CONTROLLER ............................................................................................................................................... 10 

3.2 REMOTE CONTROLLER POWER LED INDICATOR STATUS ................................................................................................................ 10 

3.3 ANTENNA ORIENTATION ........................................................................................................................................................................... 11 

3.4 REMOTE CONTROLLER 0PERATION ..................................................................................................................................................•.... 11 

3.5 LINKING THE REMOTE CONTROLLER& BUILT-IN RECEIVER ................................................................................................................ 13 

4 INTELLIGENT BATTERY ................................................................................................................................................................ 14 

4.1 CHARGING PROCEDURES .......................................................................................................................................................................... 14 

4.21NSTALL THE BATTERY ............................................................................................................................................................................... 15 

4.3 BATTERY USAGE ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 

4.4 DESCRIPTION OF THE BATTERY LEVEL INDICATOR ............................................................................................................................ 16 

4.5 CORRECT BATTERY USAGE NOTES ........................................................................................................................................................ 17 

5 CALIBRATING THE COMPASS .................................................................................................................................................... 18 

5.1 CALIBRATION WARNINGS ..................................................................................................................... ; ................................................... 18 

5.2 CALIBRATION PROCEDURES ................................................................................................. , .................................................................. 18 

5.3 WHEN RECALIBRATION IS REQUIRED ..................................................................................................................................................... 18 

6 FLIGHT ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 19 

6.1 FLYING ENVIRONtv1ENT REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................................................................ 19 

6.2 STARTING THE MOTORS ........................................................................................................................................................................... 19 

6.3 TAKEOFF/LANDING PROCEDURES ......................................................................................................................................................... 19 

6 .• 4 FAILSAFE FUNCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................... 20 

6.5 LOW BATTERY CAPACITY WARNING FUNCTION ................................................................................................................................ 21 

7 ASSISTANT SOFTWARE INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION ................................................................................. 22 

7.11NSTALLING THE DRIVER AND ASSISTANT SOFTWARE ........................................................................................................................ 22 

7.2 USING THE PHANTOM2 ASSISTANT SOFTWARE ON A PC ........................................................................................................... 22 

7.3 FIRMWARE UPGRADE OF PHANTOM2 .............................................................................................................................................. 23 

7.4 PHANTOM RC ASSISTANT SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................... 23 

8 APPENDIX ............................................................................... , .......................................................................................................... 25 

8.1 SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................ : ............................................................................. 25 

8.2 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION .............................................................................................................................................. 25 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved. 2 I 
In the ------------· ----------------· -·--·----------

PHANTOM2 2.4GHz Remote Controller Propeller Pair 

Intelligent Battery Charger Plug Set 

~-------------------------~--

--+--------·-----

Screwdriver Cables 

/ 

Micro-USB Cable Screws Accessories Box 

------

I 

i 

--··----

~ 

Required Items 

AA Battery X4 

D 

Symbol Legend 

Forbidden(lmportant) ! Caution Tip Reference 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.3 I 
1 .. PHANTOM 2 

Figure 1-1 Figure 1-2 

[l]Propeller [2]Motor [3]Front Side [4]Front LEOs [S]Micro-USB Port [6]Landing Gear [?]Receiver 

Antenna [8]CAN-Bus Connector [9]L.ED Flight Indicators [lO]DJI Intelligent Battery [ll]Compass 

1.1 Built-in Flight Control System Instructions 

The built-in flight control system is used to control the entire aircraft's functions in flight such as Pitch (forwards 

and backwards), Roll (left and right), Elevator (up and down) and Yaw (turn left or right). The flight controller 

contains the MC (Main Controller), IMU, GPS, compass, receiver. 

The IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) has a built-in inertial sensor and a barometric altimeter that measures both 

attitude and altitude. The compass reads geomagnetic information which assists the GPS (Global Position System) 

to accurately calculate the aircrafts position and height in order to lock the aircraft in a stable hover. The receiver is 

used to communicate with the remote controller and the MC acts as the brains of the complete flight control 

system connecting and controlling all the modules together. 

The PHANTOM 2 can be configured in the Assistant Software, by choosing Naza-M mode or 1-'h:::~ntnrn 

2 mode. This manual is for Phantom 2 mode. Please refer to the Naza-M V2 Quick Start Manual 

more information. 

1.2 Connections with Other DJI Products 

PHANTOM 2 is compatible with other DJI products, including ZENMUSE H3-2D gimbal 1 iOSD mini 1 iOSD Mark II 

and wireless video transmission module. Below are connections for these products. 

The PHANTOM 2 will support the PC Ground Station and iPAD Ground Station function in the 

January 2014. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.4 I 
! 

1 gimbal 

1 Mount the H3-2D gimbal 

using 4 screws. 

Figure 1-3 

( 1 ) The video cable can provide power for the wireless video transmission module with a battery 

voltage (ll.lV~l2.6V) and a maximum current 2A. 

( 2 ) Make sure the working current of the wireless video transmission module you connect can work 

with an operational voltage between ll.lV~l2.6V and the total working current of the iOSD and 

wireless video transmission module is under as an overcurrent will damage the central 

board's components. If the total current exceeds please be sure to provide power supplied 

from a separate power source for the wireless video transmission module. 

( 3 ) PHANTOM 2 uses a 2.4GHz RC system. To avoid communication interference, it's not 

recommended to use other 2.4GHz devices (including 2.4G wifi or 2.4G wireless video 

transmission module) except the 2.4G Bluetooth and 2.4G Data!ink. 

( 1 ) Connecting the H3-2D gimbal and wireless video transmission module 

Figure 1-4 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.5 I 

.! 

:~ 

u 

b.---
( 2) Connecting the H3-2D gimbal, iOSD mini and wireless video transmission module 

Figure 1-5 

( 3 ) Connecting the H3-2D gimbal, iOSD mini and DJI wireless video transmission module AVL58 

Figure 1-6 

I O&><:.rrintinn 

I by 

VIDEO 

I_ VIDEOGND 

I 

I 

:~ L:: u 

( 4 ) Connecting the H3-2D gimbal, iOSD Mark II and wireless video transmission module 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.6 I 
Figure 1-7 

The diagram below illustrates the conneciton between the iOSD Mark II and the wireless video transmission module. 

UART 

AV-GNDr-1 --=--~ 

~A'{:O~TJ 

BATT- 1 

BATT _I 

L 

Use the 8-Pin cable in the iOSD Markk II package when connecting to the DJI specific wireless 

transmission module (AVL58). 

1.3 LED Flight Indicators Description 

l. are used to show the aircraft's current status. Once powered on, the indicators will light 

up. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.? I 
,---------·--------------.----

Aircraft in Normal status Descriptions 

Power On Self-Test 

Warming Up & Aircraft cannot take off during warming up 

Ready to Fly 

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) 

Aircraft in abnormal status Warnings and errors 

Remote Controller Signal Lost 

pt Level Low Battery Capacity Warning 

2nd Level Low Battery Capacity Warning 

--+---------------------·--------

Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big 

Errors & Aircraft cannot fly. 

Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magnetic interference or 

the compass needs calibration. 

--------·-----------~-------------------------------------

( 1 ) The LED indicators diagram above are for Phantom 2 mode. In Naza-M mode, LED indicators 

will work according to the Naza-M flight control system. 

( 2) Connect to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software for detailed information about warnings and 

errors. 

2. The front LEDs are for indicating where the nose of the aircraft is. They light up solid red only after the motors 

have spooled up. 

The front 

LEDs 

1.4 Notes for PHANTOM 2 using with other DJI products 

Before using PHANTOM 2 with other DJI products, users should connecting the products correctly and upgrade 

the firmware as requirements below . 

Assistant Software for Assistant Items to upgrade Firmware versions required upgrading Software version 

P330CB (built-in 

Vl.O.l.l9 or above PHANTOM 2 Vl.08 central board) 

Zenmuse H3-2D CMU Vl.O , IMU Vl.6 or above PHANTOM 2 Vl.08 

iOSD Mark II V2.04 or above iOSD V3.02 

iOSD mini Vl.04 or above iOSD V3.02 

*The iOSD Assistant Software is applied to both iOSD Mark II and iOSD mini. 

©2013 DJilnnovations. All Rights Reserved.8 I 
2 

PHANTOM 2 uses the original 9-inch propellers which are classified by the color of each central nut. Damaged 

propellers should be replaced by purchasing new ones if necessary. 

Propellers Grey Nut (9443) Black Nut (9443 R) 

~~ ..-- Diagram ,- (<1'.0"\ 

'""-

Attach to the motor thread that does Attach to the motor thread that has a 

Assembly Location 

not have a black dot. black dot. 

Fastening/Un-fastening B'l Lock: Tighten the propeller in this direction. 

Instructions 'D'l Unlock: Remove the propeller in this direction. 

2.1 Assem!lly 

1. (Figure 2-1) Remove the four warning cards from the motors after you've read them. 

2. ( Figure 2-2 ) Prepare the two grey nut propellers and two black nut propellers. Make sure to match the 

black nut propellers with the correctly marked black dot motors. Tighten the propellers according to the 

fastening instructions. 

Figure 2-1 Figure 2-2 Figure2-3 

2.2 Disassembly 

( Figure 2-3) Keep the motor deadlocked in place with the assistant wrench (or one hand) and remove the 

propeller according to the un-fastening instructions. 

2.3 Notes 

1. Propellers are self tightening during flight. DO NOT use any thread locker on the threads. 

2. Make sure to match the propeller nut colors with the corresponding motors. 

3. It is advised to wear protective gloves during propeller assembly and removal. 

4. Check that the propellers and motors are installed correctly and firmly before every flight. 

5. Check that all propellers are in good condition before flight. DO NOT use any ageing, chipped, or broken 

propellers. 

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

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

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.9 I 
3 

The PHANTOM 2 remote controller can be configured in the PHANTOM RC Assistant Software. The sticks mode is 

Mode 2 on delivery. 

J3 [4] 

J4 [6] J1 

[7] [12] 

[8] @ 

[9] 

Figure 3-1 Figure 3-2 

[1]Antenna [2]Carrying Handle [3]3-Position Switch S1 [4]3-Position Switch S2 [5]Joystick 1(J1;J2) 

[6]Joystick2(J3;J4) [?]Neck Strap Attachment [8]Power Switch [9]Power Indicator [lO]Battery Compartment 

[11]Micro-USB Port [12]Siide Lever [13]Potentiometer 

3.1 Power on the Remote Controller 

1. Install the four AA Batteries (not included) into the battery compartment on the back of 

the remote controller according to the negative and positive poles. 

2. Set the S1 and S2 switches to the upper most position and all sticks are at mid-point 

before switching on the power switch. 

3. Push the power switch to the right to power on the remote controller. If the power LED 

indicator is solid on, the remote controller is functioning normally. 

( 1 ) Please make sure the batteries have enough capacity before use. If the low voltage warning 

alert sounds (refer to the <Remote Controller Power Indicator Status Information>), please 

replace batteries as soon as possible. 

( 2 ) Using the correct type of battery will prevent risk of damage or malfunction. 

( 3 ) For long term storage, be sure to remove the batteries from the remote controller. 

3.2 Remote controller Power LED Indicator Status 

Power LED Indicator Sound Remote Controller Status 

None Normal 

B-8-B. ..... Low voltage (at 4V-4.3V). Replace the batteries immediately 

• B--B--8 ...... Alert will sound after 15 minutes of inactivity. It will stop once you start 

using the remote controller. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.1 0 I 
The remote controller will power off below 4V. Land and 

3.3 Antenna Orientation 

The remote controller's antenna should point skywards without obstructions for maximum communication range 

during flight. 

Figure 3-3 

3.4 Remote Controller Operation 

The operations of remote controller are based on mode 2 stick configuration. 

Definitions 

The 'stick neutral 1 positions and 'stick released I mean the control sticks of the remote controller are placed at 

the central position. 

To 'move the stick 1 

means that the stick of remote controller is pushed away from the central position. 

Slide Lever is used for the pitch control of the H3-2D gimbal. 

Remote 

Controller 

(Mode 2) 

Aircraft 

nose direction ) 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.11 I 

Operation details 

The throttle stick controls the aircraft elevation. 

Push the stick up and the aircraft will rise. 

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will descend. 

The aircraft will automatically hover and hold its 

altitude if the sticks are centered. 

Pushing the throttle stick above the centered 

(neutral) position will result in the aircraft taking 

off. We suggest that you push the throttle stick 

slowly to prevent the aircraft from sudden and 

unexpected ascent. 
,~" ... , I I 

\ I ' ""/ 

Position-1 Position-2 Position-3 

OFF Course Lock H~me-point Lock 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.12 I 

The yaw stick controls the aircraft rudder. 

Push the stick left and the aircraft will rotate 

counter clock-wise. 

Push the stick right and the aircraft will rotate 

clock-wise. If the stick is centered, the aircraft 

will always fly in the same direction. 

The command stick controls the rotating angular 

velocity of the aircraft. Increasing movement of 

the command stick results in faster aircraft 

rotation velocity. 

The pitch stick controls the aircraft's front & 

back tilt. 

Push the stick up and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

forward. 

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will tilt and 

fly backward. The aircraft will keep level and 

straight if the stick is centered. 

Increasing movement of the command stick will 

result in a larger tilt angle (maximum is 35 o) and 

faster flight veloci!J_·------------1 

The roll stick controls the aircraft left & right tilt. 

Push the stick left and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

left. Push the stick right and the aircraft will tilt 

and fly right. The aircraft will keep level and 

straight if the stick is centered. 

Increasing movement of the command stick will 

result in a larger tilt angle (maximum is 35°) and 

faster flight velocity. 

S1 is for compass calibration. Toggle the S1 

switch from position-1 to position-3 and back to 

position-1, 5 times or more to enter into compass 

calibration mode. 

Users can configure position 3(bottom position) 

of the S1 switch to trigger the Failsafe in the 

Assistant Software. 

S2 is the IOC mode switch. IOC (Intelligent 

Orientation Control) function can be enabled in 

the Assistant Software when in Naza-tvl mode. 

Only use the IOC function after you are familiar 

with flying. 
--------.-----------··------------....--------

Slide Lever controls the pitch of the H3-2D 

gimbal. The position of slide lever determines 

the pitch angle relative to the horizontal level. 

Slide the lever left to make the gimbal pitch 

down up to a -90° position. 

Slide the lever right to pitch up to +0° position 

resulting in gimbal being at a horizontally level 

orientation. 

( l ) For 'Ready to Fly I the aircraft will hover when all sticks are released. 

( 2 ) For 'Ready to Fly (non-GPS) I the aircraft will only keep the altitude when all sticks are released. 

3.5 Linking the remote controller& built-in receiver 

PHANTOM 2 has a built-in receiver, the link button and indicator located on the bottom of the aircraft as illustrated 

in the Figure 3-4. 

The link between the remote controller and aircraft is already established for you so you can initially skip this 

proc.edure. If you ever replace the remote controller, re-establishing the link is required. 

~~~~--n~- Link button & 

link indicator 

Figure 3-4 

Linking procedures 

l. Power on the PHANTOM 2. 

2. Turn on the remote controller and place it O.Sm-lm away from the aircraft. 

3. Push the link button with a thin object and hold it until the Link indicator blinks red, then release it. 

4. When the Link indicator turns solid green, the link between the remote controller and the built-in receiver 

has been successfully established. 

Link Indicator Status 

The remote controller is linked with the receiver successfully. 

The remote controller is turned off and there is no 2.4GHz signal around, please turn 

on the remote controller. i 

•• • The receiver is ready for linking. 

• There is 2.4GHz signal around but the remote controller is not linked with the receiver, 

please carry out the linking procedures. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.13 I 
4 Intelligent ll"'i.!:!l'll''ll".e3>ll"'11 

The intelligent battery is specially designed for the PHANTOM 2, with a battery capacity of 5200mAh, voltage of 

11.1V and charge-discharge management functionality. The battery should only be charged with the DJI charger. 

Intelligent Battery Charger 

DJIIntelligent Battery Functions 

{ 1 ) Balance Charging 

{ 2 ) Capacity Display 

( 3 ) Communicating 

{ 4 ) Overcharging Protection 

{ 5 ) Over Discharging 

Protection 

{ 6 ) Short Circuit Protection 

{ 7 ) Sleep Protection 

{ 8 ) Charging Temperature 

Detection 

Automatically balance the voltage of each battery cell during charging. 

Display the current battery level. 

The main controller communicates with the battery via communication ports 

for battery voltage, capacity, current and other information. 

Charging stops automatically when the battery voltage reaches 12.8V to 

prevent overcharging damage. 

Discharging stops automatically when the battery voltage reaches 8.4V to 

prevent over discharging damage. 

Automatically cuts off the power supply when a short circuit i's detected. 

The battery will enter sleep mode after 10 minutes of inactivity to save 

power. The static current is 10nA in sleep mode when the battery is 

powered on without connecting to other devices. 

The battery will charge only when its temperature is within 0°(N55°(, If the 

battery temperature is out of this range, the battery will stop charging. 

( 1 ) Before use, please read and follow the user manual, disclaimer, and the warnings on the battery. 

Users take full responsibility for all operations and usage. 

( 2 ) The battery should only be charged with the charger provided by DJI. DJI does not take any 

responsibility for operation of any charger from a third party. 

4.1 Cha~gil'lg Procedures 

1. Connect the charger to a wall socket (Use the plug set if necessary). 

2. Connect the battery to the charger. If the current capacity of the battery is over 75%, you should power on 

the battery to begin charging. 

3. The Battery Level indicators display current capacity level as the battery charges. Please refer to battery 

level indicator description for details. 

4. The battery is fully charged when the Battery Level indicator lights are off. Please disconnect the charger 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.14 I 
and battery when the charging is completed. 

Wall socket 

4.2 Install the Battery 

Push the battery into the battery compartment correctly as the following diagram shows. Make sure to push the 

battery into the compartment until you hear a 'click' sound. 

Figure 4-l 

An incorrectly inserted battery may cause one of the following to occur: (l) Bad contact. (2) Unavailable 

battery information. (3) Unsafe for flight. (4) Unabl.e to take off. 

4.3 Battery Usage 

LED2 

LEDl 

Battery Level Indicator 

Figure 4-2 

LED3 

LED4 

Power Button 

Battery Power 

(1) Checking the battery level: When the battery is powered off; pressing the battery power button once will 

indicate the current battery level. Refer to < Battery Level Indicator qescription> for details. 

(2) Powering on: When the battery is powered off; press the battery power button once and then press and hold for 

2 seconds to turn on the intelligent battery. 

(3) Powering off: When the battery is powered on; press the battery power button once and then press and hold for 

2 seconds to turn off the intelligent battery. 

(4) Checking the battery life: When the battery is powered off; press and hold the battery power button for 5 

seconds to check the battery life. The battery level indicators will show the life and the battery power indicator 

will blink for 10 seconds, then all LEDs will light out and the intelligent battery will turn off. Refer to < Battery 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.15 I 
Level Indicator Description> for details. 

4.4 Description of the Battery level Indicator 

The battery level indicators will show the current battery level during both the charging and discharging process as 

well as battery life. The following is a description of the indicators. 

:The LED is solid on :The LED will blink regularly 

lEDl LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery level 

0%-25% 

25%-50% 

50%-75% 

75%-100% 

Full charged 

75%-87.5% 

62.5%-75% 

50%-62.5% 

37.5%-50% 

12.5%-25% 

0%-12.5% 

90%-100% 

80%-90% 

70%-80% 

60%-70% 

50%-60% 

40%-50% 

©2013 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved.16 I 
20%-30% 

Less than 20% 

4.5 Correct Battery Usage Notes 

l. Never plug or unplug the battery into the aircraft when it is powered on. 

2. The battery should be charged in an environment that is between 0°( to 40°(, and be discharged in an 

environment that is between -20°( to 50°C. Both charging and discharging should be in an environment 

where the relative humidity is lower than 80%. 

3. It Is recommended to charge and discharge the battery thoroughly once every 20 charge/discharge cycles. 

Users should discharge the battery until there is less than 8% power left or until the battery can no longer 

be turned on. Users should then fully recharge the battery to maximum capacity. This power cycling 

procedure will ensure the battery is working at its optimal level. 

4. For long term storage please place the battery with only a 40-50% capacity in a strong battery box 

securely. We recommend discharging and charging the battery completely once every 3 months to keep it 

in good condition. The capacity should be varied in such a cycle (40%-50%)-0%-100%-(40%-50%). 

5. It Is suggested you purchase a new battery after you have discharged your current battery over 300 times. 

Please completely discharge a battery prior to disposal. 

6. It Is suggested that you purchase a new battery if the current battery is swollen or damaged in any way. 

7. Never try to recharge or fly with a battery that is swollen or damaged in any way. 

8. Never charge the battery unattended. Always charge the battery on a non-flammable surface such as 

concrete and never near any flammable materials. 

9. Safety is extremely important and users can get more information in the DISCLAIMER. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.17 I 
5 Calibrating Compass 

The compass is very sensitive to electromagnetic interference which causes abnormal compass data and leads to 

poor flight performance or even flight failure. Regular calibration of the compass enables the compass to perform at 

its optimal level. 

5.1 Calibration Warnin s 

( 1) DO NOT calibrate your compass where there is a possibility for the existence of strong 

magnetic interference such as magnetite, parking structures, and steel reinforcement 

underground. 

( 2) DO NOT carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration such as keys or cellular 

phones. 

( 3) Compass Calibration is very important; otherwise the flight control system will work abnormally. 

5.2 Calibration Procedures 

Please carry out the calibrating procedures in the flight field before flight. Please watch the quick start video of the 

PHANTOM 2 for more compass calibration details. 

Start 

cali 

Quickly flip the switch Sl 

Position-1 

Position-3 

Position-l-,Position-3-,Position-l 

Flip no less than 5 times 

LED Flight Indicator 

Start horizontal calibratic .. 

5.3 When Recalibration is Required 

360° Rotate the aircraft 

horizontally 

LED Flight Indicator 

Start vertical calibration 

Position-1 tW, ,\_'!?} / ..... ~ .... 

Position-3 (~~~ ,_ .,."' 

Position-l-,Position-3-,Position-l 

Flip once 

360°Rotate the aircraft 

vertically (Nose ~'~~"'~'"''n,.A!::.r·rl 

LED Flight 

Indicator 

Normal LED! 

Succeed 

Re-calibrate 

( 1 ) When Compass Data is abnormal, the LED flight indicator will blink alternating b~tween red and yellow. 

( 2 ) Last compass calibration was performed at a completely different flying field/loc;ation. 

( 3 ) The mechanical structure of the aircraft has changed, i.e. changed mounting position of the compass. 

( 4 ) Evident drifting occurs in flight, i.e. the aircraft doesn't fly in straight lines. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.18 I 
6 Flight 

6.1 Flying Environment Requirements 

{ 1 ) Before your first flight, please allow yourself some flight training (Using a flight simulator to 

practice flying, getting instruction from an experienced person, etc.). 

{ 2 ) DO NOT fly in bad weather, such as rain or wind (more than moderate breeze) or fog. 

{ 3 ) The flying field should be open and void of tall buildings or other obstacles; the steel structure 

within buildings may interfere with the compass. 

{ 4) Keep the aircraft away from obstacles, crowds, power lines, trees, lakes and rivers etc. 

{ 5 ) Try to avoid interference between the remote controller and other wireless equipment. (No base 

stations or cell towers around) 

{ 6 ) The flight control system will not work properly at the South Pole or North Pole. 

{ 7 ) Never use the aircraft in a manner that infringes upon or contravenes international or domestic 

lays and regulations. 

6.2 Starting the Motors 

A Combination Stick Command (CSC) is needed to start the motors. Push the sticks according to one of the options 

below to start motors. Once the motors have spun up, release both sticks simultaneously. The same command is 

used to stop the motors. 

A B c D 

Figure 6-l 

6.3 Takeoff/Landing Procedures 

1. Start by placing the PHANTOM 2 on the ground with the battery level indicators facing you. 

2. Turn on the remote controller. 

3. Power on the aircraft by turning on the intelligent battery. 

4. When LED flight indicator blinks green/yellow, the PHANTOM 2 is entering Ready to Fly/Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode. Start the motors with the CSC command. 

5. Push the throttle stick up slowly to lift the aircraft off the ground. Refer to <Remote Controller Operation> 

for more details. 

6. Be sure you are hovering over a level surface. Pull down on the throttle stick gently to descend and land. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.19 I 
7. After landing the aircraft on the ground, keep the throttle stick at its lowest position for about 3 to 5 

seconds which will automatically stop the motors. 

You SHOULD NOT execute the CSC during normal flight! This will stop the motors and cause the 

aircraft to descend rapidly and drop without any type of control. 

( 1 ) When the LED flight indicator blinks yellow rapidly during flight, the aircraft has entered into 

Failsafe mode, refer to <Failsafe Function> for details. 

( 2 ) A low battery capacity warning is indicated by the LED flight indicator blinking red slowly or 

rapidly during flight. Refer to the <Low Battery Capacity Warning Function> for details. 

( 3 ) Watch the quick start video about flight for more flight information. 

6.4 Failsafe Function 

The aircraft will enter Failsafe mode when the connection from the remote controller is lost. The flight control 

system will automatically control the aircraft to return to home and land to reduce injuries or damage. The following 

situations would make the aircraft fail to receive a signal from the remote controller and enter Failsafe mode: 

( 1 ) The remote controller is powered off. 

( 1 ) The remote controller is powered on but the S1 is toggled in the position triggering the Failsafe (this must 

have been configured in the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software). 

( 2 ) The aircraft has flown out of the effective communication range of the remote controller. 

( 3 ) There is an ob~tacle obstructing the signal between the remote controller and the aircraft, essentially 

reducing the distance the signal can travel. 

( 4 ) There is interference causing a signal problem with the remote controller. 

Failsafe works differently depending on the mode the aircraft is in when Failsafe mode is initiated whether it is in 

the Ready to Fly or Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode. 

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) ----Automatic landing 

The flight control system will try to keep the aircraft level during descent and landing. Note that the aircraft may 

be drifting during the descent and landing process. 

Ready to Fly---- Automatic go home and land 

' I The flight control system will automatically control the aircraft to fly back to the home point and land. I 

Home Point 

When the aircraft is initializing the Ready to Fly status, the aircraft will record the current GPS coordinates as 

the home point. It is recommended to lift off only after Ready to Fly status is confirmed for the safety of being 

able to fly back to home point successfully in case the Failsafe mode is initiated. 

Quickly switching the S2 switch of the remote controller from upper most to lower most positions 5 

times or more will reset the home point of PHANTOM 2. When the home point is set, you will see a 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.20 I 
series of rapid green blinks on the LED Flight Indicator. The definition of "home point" is: 

( 1 ) The place the PHANTOM 2 returns to when the control signal is lost. 

( 2) The home point is used to calculate the horizontal distance between you and the aircraft, the 

distance will be displayed as .D.. if using iOSD module. 

Go Home Procedures 

1 Record Home Point. 

5 Fly back to home point. 

~--------------~ 

T Height over home point>20m i 

~-------------- ! l Elevate to 20m : i 

20m ~~ 

Height over home point<=20m ! 

i 

Regaining Control During Failsafe Procedure 

Posit-io-n :,,--.,.---------------·-------.-----I P-o-si-ti_o_n: 

Switch Sl p osltlon- · · 1 Pos'1t1'on-2 

(No triggering the Failsafe) -----------4--------

When the Sl switch is switched to Position-1, 

How to regain toggle the Sl switch to any other position once to 

control regain control. If remote controller's signal is 

recovered, control is returned back to the pilot. 

6.5 low Battery Capacity Warning Function 

Regain control as soon as signal is 

recovered. 

The low battery capacity warning alerts users when the battery is close to depletion during flight. When it appears, 

users should promptly fly back and land to avoid accidental damage. The PHANTOM 2 has two levels of low battery 

capacity warning. The first appears when the battery has less than 30% power and the second appears when it has 

less than 15% power. 

( 1 ) When battery power drops below 30% and LED indicator will blink red slowly. 

( 2) At lower than 15% the LED indicator will blink red rapidly, the PHANTOM 2 will also begin to des~end and 

land automatically. After it has landed, keep the throttle stick at its lowest point or execute CSC. 

( 3 ) There is a hidden third low battery threshold in addition to the 1st and 2nd level warnings. This uses 10.65V 

as its threshold. Both this voltage threshold and the 2nd Level Low Battery Warning will trigger auto-landing. 

Altitude can be maintained if necessary by pushing up on the throttle stick. 

( 1 ) Remember to fly your PHANTOM 2 back as soon as you see a low battery capacity warning. 

( 2) Keeping the battery contact needles and pads clean is very important. Any dirt and dust may 

cause a communication failure. 

©2013 DJllnnovations. All Rights Reserved.21 
7 

7.1 Installing the Driver and Assistant Software 

The PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software and the PHANTOM RC Assistant Software are used for advanced adjustments 

of the PHANTOM 2. Please follow the steps below to install the Driver and Assistant Software. 

Download the driver Connect the Micro-USB Run the driver Run the Assistant 

installer and port of PHANTOM 2 to a installer and follow Software installer 

Assistant Software USB port of PC via a the prompts to and follow the 

installer from the DJ I Micro-USB cable. finish installation. prompts to finish 

website. installation. 

i The PHANTOM 2 and PHANTOM RC Assistant Software currently only supports Windows operating 

systems (Win XP, Win7, Win8 (32 or 64 bit)). 

7.2 Using the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software on a PC 

1. Start up the PC, power on the PHANTOM 2, then Connect the PHANTOM 2 to the PC with a Micro-USB 

cable. DO NOT disconnect until configuration is finished. 

2. Run the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software and wait for the PHANTOM 2 to connect to the Assistant 

Software. Observe the indicators on the bottom left of the screen. When connected successfully, the 

connection indicator is 

3. Choose [Basic] or [Advanced] configuration pages. 

4. View and check the current configuration in the [View] page. 

View configurations 

RC, Gain 

Gimbal, Battery 

Communication 

indicator 

Connection indicator 

PHANTOM 2 , :""• i ~ EnQ~% 

~~~rl~~~ i ! 

1 B ~It M"lnc•d Tools \JPO!allll Info 1 j 

«CD "".,ift0%~~~ w ~ R~~i0:£2h *"'"""" """ ~@!!i!;'«~~M =-~~ -'""'~"""' 

ocn1 

Oon 

Ocm 

R~ll 

1.1i:ter ljpe: 0U3•:1-folor :< 

\ler11"'ll 

ftdv~nced 

M~loildle Speea RecilmmendM 

Cll1 Oft f;·~· ln1ellig•nt 

..................... 

Function switch of Phantom 2 

and Naza-N mode 

Language swap 

Account, software 

version 

Firmware upgrade 

INU calibration 

*This image is for reference 

only. Please refer to the 

actual user interface . 

( 1 ) Users should not enable the Naza-M function before finishing Advanced Flight Maneuvers 

procedure in the " PHANTOM Pilot Training Guide". If the Naza-M mode is enabled, users can 

switch the control mode between ATTI. Mode, GPS Mode or Manual Mode, and access the 

advanced settings (e.g. IOC). In addition, the LED located on the rear frame arms will display 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.22 I 
Naza-M flight status indications instead of the PHANTOM 2's indicators. Do not enable the 

Naza-M mode unless you are an experienced user or guided by a professional. 

( 2) You can change to the Phantom 2 mode by clicking the same button used to turn on the Naza-M 

mode. This operation will disable the Naza-M mode and enable Phantom 2 mode. All parameters 

will be returned to factory settings. 

7.3 Firmware upgrade of PHANTOM 2 

Please follow the procedures to upgrade the software and firmware; otherwise the PHANTOM 2 might not work 

properly. 

1. An internet connection is required to upgrade PHANTOM 2 's firmware. 

2. Click the [Upgrade] icon to check the current firmware version and whether the installed firmware is the 

latest version. If not, click the relative links to upgrade. 

3. Be sure to wait until the Assistant Software shows "finished". Click OK and power cycle the PHANTOM 2 

after 5 seconds .• Once completed, the firmware is up to date. 

PHANTOM 2 ~ ~i!ij.ul,~'i~ English? - X 

[q. ~ rJ"~ -~- i. ~1ih'/ 8ia5:!f; Al~t411C$d Toi(if;;. ' 1 t lnfCi 1 

I ~d$80 '" ~ ~= *2~~ = ~ ~ ~= ~ ~ 

Loader ll.ardwarem nrmwilre Upgrade 

Firmware upgradable items MaimCOIT1roller ·.·.- 10C'J&9441)3 1.04 l:a!est•~rsion:1.05 

6PS -.-.- ~.1.1.2 G 0.1.4 

ReceJver..Phlll'it1lm 2 1S.O.O 6 04IT•OO•J•J425 10 0 0 N•>"pdatos 

PJJOCIJ 200.00 (l2fD1J2Bt30 1.0.110 la!est·~-erslon:1.0.1.1.8 Upgrade link 

GlmboiCI.IU 1.0 2DC'o-~,:J605 1.0 flo updates 

Glmii.aliMU o.a 2DrHiS051'J5 16 Uoupdates 

Daltery 1.0.0.0 tj(lD0:·0\1636 1.6.0.0 No updates 

Current firmware version 

''This image is for reference 

only. Please refer to the 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ actual user interface. 

(l) DO NOT power off until the upgrade is finished. 

41 (2) If the firmware upgrade failed, the main controller will enter a waiting for firmware upgrade 

status automatically. If this happens, repeat the above procedures. 

Firmware upgradable items: ( 1 ) Main Controller ( 2 ) P330CB(Main Board) ( 3 ) Receiver ( 4 ) Gimbal 

CMU ( 5) GimbaiiMU ( 6) Battery 

7.4 PHANTOM RC Assistant Software Description 

Please follow the procedurEls to finish the configuration of the remote controller. 

1. · Turn off the remote controller and find the Micro-USB port on the bottom of it. 

2. ·Start up the PC, power on the remote controller, and then Connect the remote controller to the PC with a 

Micro-USB cable. DO NOT disconnect until the configuration is finished. 

©2013 OJ I Innovations. All· Rights Reserved.23 I 
3. Run the PHANTOM RC Assistant Software and wait for the remote controller to connect to the Assistant 

Software. Observe the indicators on the bottom left of the screen. When connected successfully, the 

connection indicator is and communication indicator is 

4. Finish configuration in the [Main] page. 

5. Finish upgrade in the [Info] page if necessary. 

Main page of the 2.4GHz remote controller 

Main page 

Communication indicator 

Connection indicator 

IJJI Phon tom Remote C<>ntmller 

Tile Phantom RC As.si$tlnl $Cti'ttJJ.fl} Is. 

u-:.ed kt cc,rdJgure- and upgrade the t:Ul 

Phamom R~mole CcMrc,Her !E·Jll'l 

!5SGHlM~ 2 4G~:) 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.24 I 

Mode2 

, Language swap 

Firmware upgrade 

Account, software 

version 

*This image is for 

reference only. Please 

refer to the actual 

user interface. 
8 1 Specifications 

Aircraft 

Operating environment temperature 

Power consumption 

Supported Battery 

Weight (including the battery) 

Take-off Weight 

Hovering Accuracy (Ready to Fly) 

Max Yaw Angular Velocity 

Max Tilt Angle 

Max Ascent/ Descent Speed 

Max Flight Speed 

Wheelbase 

2.4GHz Remote Controller 

Operating Frequency 

Communication Distance (open area) 

Receiver Se1~sitivity (1%PER) 

Working Current/Voltage 

Battery 

DJ I Intelligent Battery 

Type 

Capacity 

Charging Environment Range 

Discharging Environment Range 

5.6W 

DJIIntelligent battery 

lOOOg 

:::;1300g 

Vertical: 0.8m; Horizontal: 2.5m 

200° /s 

35° 

6m/s 

15m/s (Not Recommended) 

350mm 

2.4GHz ISM 

lOOOm 

-97dBm 

100 mA@6V 

4 AA Batteries 

3S LiPo Battery 

5200mAh, ll.lV 

0°( to 40°( 

-20°( to 50°( 

8.2 LED Fli ht Indicators Descri tion 

Aircraft in Normal status Descriptions 

Power On Self-Test 

Warming Up & Aircraft cannot take off during warming up 

b-·---------------------------------------------~ 

Ready to Fly 

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) 

--+--------------·---------------------------------~ 

Aircraft in abnormal status Warnings and errors 

Remote Controller Signal Lost 

lst Level Low Battery Capacity Warning 

©2013 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved.25 I 
---------,.-----------

2nd Level Low Battery Capacity Warning 

---------------+-------------------------------------------

Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big 

------·------·---

Errors & Aircraft cannot fly.* 

Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magnetic interference or 

the compass needs calibration. 

* Users can connect to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software to get detailed information about warnings and errors. 

©2013 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved.26 I 
Phantom 2 Vision + Mission Checklist 

Square World Media, LCC/TXKtoday.com Checklist 

Arrival Checklist 

1. If day and operating out of back 

of vehicle, point vehicle into sun. 

2. Remove case and place on level 

surface. 

3. Check distance to nearest airport 

and/or controlled airspace using 

smartphone or tablet app. 

4. If required, use VHF aviation 

transceiver, to contact tower of 

field if closer than 5 NM. 

5. Inform tower I CTAF of U AS 

ops, location, and max height of 

flight. 

Preflight Checklist 

1. Remove transmitter. 

2. Router- On 

3. Transmitter - On 

4. Toggle Switches- Full Up 

5. Video Monitor- On 

6. Remove UAS from case. 

7. Gimbal Lock & Lens Cap -

Removed 

8. Micro-SD card - Inserted. 

9. UAS Battery- Inserted 

10. Place UAS in clear and safe 

launch and recovery position if it 

returns to home. 

11. UAS Battery- On 

12. Wifi Connection to Monitor -

Verified 

13. DJI Application - Load 

14. DJI application - Connect to 

Camera 

15. SD Card- Format 

16. Camera- Full Up 

17. Satellite Connections - Verified 

18. Charge Levels- Safe for Flight 

19. Video Recording- Start 

20. Takeoff 

After Takeoff Checklist 

1. Hover approximately ten feet 

above the ground to confirm 

UAS is under control. 

2. All sticks operate correctly while 

in hover - Verified 

Pre-Landing Checldist 

1. Camera - Full Up 

2. Video Recorder- Stop 

3. Landing Zone - Clear I Safe 

Post-Landing Checklist - Returning to 

Flight Immediately 

I 

1. Battery - Remove & Replace 

2. Wifi Connection to Monitor -

Verified 

3. DJI application - Connect to 

Camera 

4. Takeoff 

End of Ops Checklist i 

1. Battery - Off 

2. Transmitter- Off 

3. Router'- Of( 

4. Notify Tower/CTAF - End of 

Ops 
S uare World Media LLC/TXKtoda .com 

Pre-Flight Checklist 

o Charge Main Batteries 

o Charge Repeater 

o Check Motors 

o Check Props for Wear 

o Check Controller Power 

o Test Anemometer 

o Check Radio 

o Check Camera 

Post-Flight Checklist 

o Check Motors for Wear or Heat 

o Check Main Batteries for Signs of Heat and Damage 

o Check Props for Damage or Wear (Replace as needed) 

o Check for any Missing or Broken Parts-Note Any Damage 

o Turn Off Camera 

o Turn Off Controller Power 

o Tum Off Ar,temometer 

o Turn Off Radio 

o Download Images and Videos 

0 

Post Flight Maintenance Notes: 

Signed: _________________ Date: ____ _ 
Checklist 

Date: Location: Satelites: ------------- -------------- --------------

Wind: _________ Temperature: ______ Deg. F. CONDX: ______ Batt#: ____ _ 

o Check Wind and Temperature 

o Check for Obstructions 

o Install/Check Battery Level __ % 

o Turn on Range Extender 

o Turn on Remote Control 

o Turn on Controller (2 beeps) 

o Set Wi-Fi /Turn on DJI Vision App 

o Verify GPS (Green flashes- Screen) 

o Start Video 

o Take Off/Land 

o Stop Video 

o Power Down Phantom 

o Turn Off Controller/Range Ext. 

Flight Start Time: ______ Stop Time: ______ Max Altitude: __________ _ 

Pilot: Observer: ----------------- ---------------

Notes: 
I I 1 

tvlaintenan Manual 

r v1.o 1 2015.2 

To ensure that your aircraft continues to offer optimal performance and to ensure flight safety, 

it is recommended that comprehensive maintenance be performed after every 200 flights or 50 

flight hours. This manual is intend to help users maintain their aircraft and maximize its continued 

reliability. 

1. Checking the Battery 

1. Check the battery for damage and deformities. If 

there are any signs of damage to the battery, stop 

using it and discharge the battery to 1 0% or below 

for disposal. Do not disassemble the battery for any 

reason. 

2. Check the battery pins and rub them clean with an 

eraser if any residue is observed. This will help to 

ensure a more reliable connection. 

3. Check the metal battery power connectors for 

damage. If the connectors appear burnt, try to clear 

them. This can be done by inserting a piece of 

sandpaper (1 mm thick) into the connectors to polish 

the metal. 

4. Check the contact pins in the battery compartment to 

ensure that the pins are clear. They should be able 

to establish easy contact with the battery connectors 

and should not be bent. 

5. Check the electrodes on the battery. If they appear 

burnt, polish them with sandpaper. If there is serious 

erosion, send the battery in for repairs. 

6. Check the plastic components of the battery bracket 

to see it is in good condition and that all screws are 

secure. This prevents the battery from becoming 

loose during flight. 

7. Check the power cables between the arms and the 

center plate, if the cables are worn, contact DJI to 

arrange repairs. 

8. For long term storage, please refer to the "Intelligent 

Flight Battery Safety Guidelines" and check the 

battery once a month to prevent the battery cell from 

being damaged. 

9. Run the DJI Pilot App to confirm that all battery cells 

are at similar voltage levels and stay at the same level 

when the battery is fully charged. If all cells maintain 

voltage levels above 3.7V but any cell is 0.2V higher 

or lower than the others, contact OJI for analysis. You 

can also check the battery cell warning history. If any 

warning are reported, contact OJ I. 

II. Checking the Transformation System 

1. Check the servomotor cables for wear. Also confirm 

that the connection points are still in good condition. 

2. Check the lead screws and contact DJI Support 

to arrange repairs if any bendi~g or damage is 

discovered. Clean the lead screws with WD-40 spray 

if they show signs of rust. 

I 

3. Listen to the servomotors during tHe transformation, 

if there is abnormal noise, it may ·indicate that the 

servomotors worn. i 

4. After the landing gear rises, check, the lead screws 

and bearings. If any dirt or dust is found, clean and 

grease the bearings. 

5. Check the lead screws. If there is any scratches, 

dents, or plastic particles underneath them, contact 

OJI Support to arrange repairs. 

Ill. Checking the Aircraft 

1. Confirm that all the screws are still adequately 

tightened. 

2. Check the aircraft for breaks or damage. If there is 

any reason to believe that detectable damage might 

affect flight safety, consult with OJI Support. 

3. Check the carbon tubes of the arms for damage. 

4. Check the dampers on the landing gears. If they are 

loose, secure them with 502 glue. 

5. Ensure that there are no obstacles on or around the 

GPS module or around the antennas on the landing 

gear. Remove any obstacles (such as tapes with 

conductive material) that might affect or block the 

signal. 

6. Check that the right and left landing gear rest at the 

same tilt angle. 

© 2015 DJJ. All Rights Reserved. 
IV. Checking the Motors 

1. Check the rotors to confirm that they have not 

become loose. 

2. Detach the propellers and start the motors. Listen 

carefully. If there is any abnormal noise, please 

replace the motors. This may be a sign that the 

bearings have been worn out. 

3. Detach the propellers and start the motors. Carefully 

examine the edge of the rotor and confirm that the 

shaft is perfectly centered on the motor. Check 

for any abnormal or excessive vibration. If any 

problems are detected, contact DJI Support to order 

replacement motors. 

4. Check for deformities by confirming that the gap 

between the motor and motor base is even. If not 

contact DJI Support to order replacement motors. 

5. Ensure that the screws used to secure the motor 

base are tight and the plastic components around 

the motors are in good condition. If not please 

tighten the screws and contact DJI to repair any 

broken plastic components. 

V. Checking the Propellers 

1. Check the propellers. If there is any bending, 

breakage or cracking on a propeller, do not use it,. 

2. Attach the propeller to the motor, turn on the airc'raft, 

and place it on the ground. Stand 1 meter away from 

the aircraft and observe the rotating propellers. If you 

can see two distinct propeller outline layers, when 

looking at a spinning propeller from the side, this 

propeller is damaged and should not be used. 

VI. Checking the IMU 

1. Open DJI Pilot app to check the condition of the IMU 

and perform an advanced IMU calibration. Please 

place the aircraft in a cool environment and on a 

flat, stable surface (if the landing gear is damaged, 

support the aircraft with four objects of equal 

height). Do not touch the craft during the calibration. 

2. Turn on the aircraft and listen for any abnormal noise 

or vibration from the fan located on the front of the 

aircraft. If any irregularity is detected, replace the 

fan. 

VII. Checking the Control and Video Transmission System 

1. Check the 4 antennas on the landing gear to ensure 

that they are secure. Also check for any bending or 

damage. 

2. Check the antennas of the remote controller for 

damage 

3. Check the neck strap for damage or wear, replace 

if necessary. 

VIII. Checking the Gimbal and Camera 

1. The quick-mount connector for the camera is a 

particularly vulnerable component. If the gimbal 

fails to initialize when turned on, fails to work after 

initialization, or fails to transmit video to the app 

(while OSD data is displayed), the quick-mount 

connector may be worn. In this case, replace the 

rubber mat, circuit board, and/or connector on the 

gimbal quick-mount. 

2. Check the metal contacts on the quick mount 

connector board, if any contact is bent, replace 

the quick-mount connector. 

3. Check the contact pins on the quick-mount 

connector board, if there is any dirt, rub it clean 

with an eraser. If any contact pins are worn out it 

should be replaced. 

4. Confirm that the gimbal is able to properly stabilize 

itself. If its stabilizing performance deteriorates, 

contact DJI to arrange repairs. 

5. Listen for any abnormal noise from the fan when 

the gimbal is turned on. This may indicate unusual 

vibration and the fan should be replaced. 

IX. Checking the Vision Positioning System 

1. Check the lens of the camera. If any dirt ;or residue 

is detected, gently clean the lens. 

2. Check for and remove objects that might block the 

sensors. 

3. Ensure that the Vision Positioning System is securely 

installed on the aircraft. 

4. Detach the propellers and turn on the aircraft. Hold 

the aircraft 1-2 meters above a surface with rich 

patterns, under good lighting conditions. Change 

1 the Flight Mode switch to P Mode on the controller 

'and check the DJI Pilot app. If the app displays an 

altitude value and indicates that P-OPTI mode is 

active, the Vision Positioning System should function 

normally. 

Support Center Contact Info: 

http://www.dji.com/support 

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